Gliclazide is an anti-diabetic drug which helps lower the blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. The drug, gliclazide, works in combination with diet and stimulates the release of insulin in the body of the patient. This drug is suitable treatment of maturity onset diabetes, wherein the blood sugar levels cannot be controlled independently by dietary changes. Gliclazide is strictly meant for use by diabetic adult who do not rely on insulin for control of blood sugar. It should not be consumed by children. Inform the GP up front in case you are allergic to gliclazide or any other ingredients contained in the tablet. Do not consume the tablet under such circumstances as it may lead to severe allergic reaction. In addition, tell the GP if you have severe kidney or liver disease, Type I diabetes, have inherited blood cell condition or any hormone-induced disorders. Prior information must be given to the GP is you are at a risk of developing low blood sugar or have irregular meals in a day. It is recommended that you tell the doctor about any other drugs or natural remedies that you been following before starting gliclazide. Information about all the medicines taken before or during the course of treatment with gliclazide must be given to the GP. Some of these medications include blood pressure drugs with ACE inhibitors, anti-depressants, drugs used for treating infection and mental health problems, corticosteroids, laxatives, oral contraceptives and those used to treat blood clotting and high cholesterol.
Gliclazide may result in side effects in some people. Make sure that it is taken only in the dosage recommended by the GP. In case you experience an allergic reaction, contact the GP immediately and stop taking the medicine. An allergic reaction may appear in the form of a rash, difficulty breathing, facial swelling or swelling of the throat, tongue or lips. Immediately stop taking the medicine and contact the GP in case you experience the following symptoms: • Gastrointestinal: Abdominal discomfort, indigestion, constipation or diarrhoea • Skin: Rashes, irritation, itching, redness or change of skin colour • Liver: Hepatitis, weight loss, fever, jaundice or loss of appetite • Low blood sugar: Drowsiness, sweating, weakness, trembling, depression, numbness, trouble walking, loss of self control, chest pain or confusion
Gliclazide should always be taken in dosage recommended by the GP. It should never be overdosed. In case of any doubt, contact the doctor before starting the medication. Gliclazide should always be taken with a glass of water and no other beverage and alcohol. These tablets are meant to be taken before meals and can be easily cut into half to match the dosage, if required. This medicine is not suitable for children. In case of adults and elderly, take the medicine as prescribed by the GP. Usually, the starting dose is 40-80mg once daily, which can be increased to a total daily dose of 40-320mg, depending on the severity of the condition. Dose more than 160mg should never be taken at a time. A total dose of 320mg should be split over a day. In case you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless its time for the next dose. Do not take a double dose in a single go to make up for the missed tablet. Consult the GP before deciding to stop the medicine. Do not stop taking the drug abruptly.
Gliclazide works by triggering the release of insulin in the body of the patient. Insulin is a hormone responsible for regulating the glucose levels in the human body. The active ingredient, gliclazide, specifically binds to the receptors on the surface of the pancreatic beta cells. The beta cells are responsible for producing insulin, primarily in response to glucose. The insulin, thus released uses the sugar from the carbohydrates to produce energy. All female patients who are pregnant or planning to conceive should refrain from taking the medicine and consult the GP before starting it. The medicine should be avoided by nursing or breastfeeding mothers. The tablets should be stored in a dry place and below 25 Degrees Celsius. Storing the medicine at temperatures above the specified range might reduce its effectiveness. Keep the medicine out of reach and sight of children. Contact the GP or the nearest hospital immediately if a child accidentally swallows the medicine. Gliclazide should never be consumed in high dosage. Overdose may result in sevral low sugar symptoms such as sweating, weakness, trembling, palpitations, confusion and double vision.
