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What is the most important information I should know about glipizide: Glipizide is a
prescription medication not FDA approved for veterinary use; however, it is a commonly accepted
practice for veterinarians to use this medication in cats. Glipizide is available as 5mg
tablets. The usual initial dose for cats is 2.5mg by mouth twice a day. Treatment with
glipizide in humans may increase the risk of death from cardiovascular disease compared to
treatment of diabetes with diet alone or diet with insulin. Signs and symptoms of low blood
sugar (hypoglycemia) may include headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat,
sweating, tremor and nausea. Treat hypoglycemia in cats by applying 1/4 teaspoon of Karo Syrup
to the cat's gums. Do not give more of this medication than is prescribed without consulting
your veterinarian. Do not use this medication in dogs.
What is Glipizide: Glipizide is in a class of drugs called
sulfonylureas and it is used to help control blood sugar levels. Glipizide is used in cats
along with diet and insulin therapy. Glipizide may also be used for purposes other than those
listed in this guide.
What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving glipizide
to my pet: Tell your veterinarian if your pet has kidney or liver disease, thyroid disease,
a serious infection, illness or injury, or if the pet needs surgery. Tell your veterinarian if
your pet is pregnant or lactating.
How should this medication be given: Give this medication
exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Allow pet to drink plenty of water. Glipizide should
be taken before meals. Follow your veterinarian's instructions. If you do not understand the
directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Store glipizide at room
temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this medication away from children and
pets.
What happens if I miss giving a dose: Give the missed dose as
soon as you remember. However, if is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip
the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not give a double dose of the
medication.
What happens if I overdose the pet: Seek emergency veterinary
medical treatment. Symptoms of glipizide overdose include hunger, nausea, anxiety, weakness,
drowsiness, unconsciousness, and coma.
What should I avoid while giving Glipizide to my pet: Follow
diet and medication routines closely. Changing any of these things can affect blood sugar
levels. Tell your veterinarian that your pet is taking glipizide before undergoing any surgery.
Do not take any prescription, over the counter, or herbal cough, cold, allergy, pain, or weight
loss medications without first talking to your veterinarian.
What are the possible side effects of Glipizide: If any of the
following serious side effects occur, stop giving glipizide and seek emergency veterinary
medical attention; an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips; tongue or
face; hives). Other less serious side effects may occur due mostly to blood sugar levels that
are too low or too high. Symptoms of hypoglycemia or low blood sugar include shaking; headache;
pale, cool skin; and anxiety. Symptoms of hyperglycemia or high blood sugar include increased
thirst, hunger and urination. Other side effects may also occur. Talk to your veterinarian
about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to the animal.
What other drugs will affect Glipizide: Glipizide levels may
increase or decrease when given with many other medicines. Before giving glipizide tell your
veterinarian if your pet is also taking aspirin or any other salicylate, an NSAID such as
carprofen, a sulfa drug such as SMZ/TMP, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as
selegiline, a beta blocker such as atenolol, a steroid such as prednisone, a phenothiazine such
as acepromazine, phenytoin, or prescription, over the counter, or herbal cough, cold, allergy
or weight loss medications. Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with glipizide
or affect your pets condition. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any
prescription or over the counter medicines.
Where can I get more information: Your pharmacist has additional
information about glipizide written for health professionals that you may read.
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