Glimepiride: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan
Glimepiride is a tablet for type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a group of medicines called sulfonylureas and is often prescribed together with metformin. In Pakistan you will find it on its own and in combination tablets.
How Glimepiride works
Glimepiride encourages the pancreas to release more insulin, which helps move sugar out of the blood and into the body’s cells. Because it works by pushing insulin release, it can make blood sugar go too low if you miss meals.
What is Glimepiride used for?
- Type 2 diabetes, together with a healthy diet and regular exercise
- Used alone or combined with other diabetes medicines such as metformin, pioglitazone or insulin
Side effects of Glimepiride
Not everyone gets side effects. The ones reported more often are:
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)
- Weight gain
- Nausea or stomach upset
- Dizziness or headache
Low blood sugar is the main risk. Warning signs include sweating, shakiness, a fast heartbeat, hunger, confusion and blurred vision. Take something sugary straight away and get medical help if symptoms do not improve, if the person becomes drowsy or confused, or if it keeps happening.
Precautions and warnings
- It is not used for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
- Skipping meals, heavy exercise and alcohol all increase the risk of low blood sugar.
- Older people and those with kidney or liver disease are more prone to low sugar, so tell your doctor.
- Tell your doctor if you are allergic to sulfonamide medicines or have G6PD deficiency.
- Insulin is usually preferred during pregnancy, so tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to be.
Frequently asked questions about Glimepiride
What should I do if my sugar goes low on glimepiride?
Take a fast source of sugar such as glucose tablets, fruit juice or a sugary drink, then eat a proper snack once you feel better. Tell your doctor, because your treatment may need adjusting.
Can glimepiride be taken with metformin?
Yes. Glimepiride and metformin are often prescribed together, and combination tablets containing both are available in Pakistan. Your doctor will decide whether a combination is right for you.
Glimepiride brands and prices in Pakistan
Medimart lists 160+ products containing Glimepiride from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.
