RiteMED Glimepiride Special Precautions

While taking glimepiride tablets, it is important that the patient eats regular meals and not miss meals. If patient does not follow this advice, he/she is at an increased risk of hypoglycemia (too little sugar in the blood).
Other factors increasing the risk of hypoglycemia are: Alcohol consumption, especially in combination with missed meals.
If the patient has thyroid problems and other hormonal problems (ask the doctor for advice).
Hypoglycemia symptoms (too little sugar in the blood) include: headache, ravenous appetite, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, sleep disturbances, restlessness, aggression, poor concentration, poor alertness and reactions, depression, confusion, visual disorders, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, tremor, slight or incomplete paralysis, sensory disturbances, dizziness, helplessness, loss of self-control, being in a dream-like state, fits, sleepiness and loss of consciousness up to and including coma, shallow breathing and slow heart rate.
In addition there may be sweating, clammy skin, anxiety, fast heart rate, high blood pressure, irregular heart rate, chest pain. If patient has any of these symptoms seek medical advice immediately.
While the patient is taking glimepiride tablets, the doctor will probably monitor his/her blood closely.
Taking glimepiride tablets with food and drink: Glimepiride must be taken immediately prior to or during a meal, preferably the first major meal of the day (e.g. breakfast). Drinking alcohol may affect the action of glimepiride tablets, patient should discuss this with the doctor.
Driving and using machines: Care should be exercised if patient is taking glimepiride tablets and driving or operating machinery. The ability to concentrate and react may be impaired as a result of hypoglycaemia (too little sugar in the blood) or hyperglycaemia (too much sugar in the blood). Other effects may include visual impairment, dizziness, helplessness, loss of self-control, being in a dream-like state.
Important information about some of the ingredients of glimepiride tablets: If the patient has been told by the doctor that he/she has intolerance to some sugars, contact the doctor before taking this medicine.
Taking other medicines: Please inform the doctor or pharmacist if patient is taking or has recently taken any other medicines, even those not prescribed.
Use in Pregnancy: Patient should not take glimepiride tablets while pregnant.
Use in Lactation: Patient should not take glimepiride tablets while breastfeeding.