Examples

Sulfonylureas are also available in combination pills. Glyburide is combined with the biguanide medicine metformin (Glucovance). Glipizide is combined with metformin (Metaglip). Glimepiride is combined with the thiazolidinedione medicines rosiglitazone (Avandaryl) and pioglitazone (Duetact).

How It Works

Sulfonylurea medicines increase the amount of insulin produced by the pancreas, and insulin lowers blood sugar.

Why It Is Used

Sulfonylurea medicines are prescribed for people with type 2 diabetes when eating healthy foods, weight loss, and exercise do not keep the blood sugar level within a target range. They are helpful for people who cannot make enough insulin or who have become resistant to the insulin the body makes.

These medicines can help control blood sugar levels in children and young adults who have type 2 diabetes and are overweight.

How Well It Works

Type 2 diabetes is a disease that can get worse over time, so medicines may need to change.

Diabetes medicines work best for people who are being active and eating healthy foods. Studies have suggested that sulfonylureas lower hemoglobin A1c by 1% to 2%.¹

Side Effects

All medicines have side effects. But many people don't feel the side effects, or they are able to deal with them. Ask your pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take. Side effects are also listed in the information that comes with your medicine.

Here are some important things to think about:

• Usually the benefits of the medicine are more important than any minor side effects.
• Side effects may go away after you take the medicine for a while.
• If side effects still bother you and you wonder if you should keep taking the medicine, call your doctor. He or she may be able to lower your dose or change your medicine. Do not suddenly quit taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

Call 911 or other emergency services right away if you have:

• Trouble breathing.
• Hives.
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor if you have:

• Seizures.

Common side effects of this medicine include:

• Signs of low blood sugar (sweating, feeling nervous, dizziness, and/or confusion).
• Hunger.
• Weight gain.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)