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Brand Name
Glucotrol
Pronunciation
GLIP-e-zide
Common Drug Name
Glipizide
What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Glipizide?
Talk to your veterinarian about what type of outcome is expected and what testing will be necessary to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment. Have your veterinarian explain the other therapy options that may be necessary to treat diabetes in your cat. Also discuss the dietary changes that will be necessary to help regulate the diabetes.
Your veterinarian should explain to you what clinical signs to watch for to determine if Glipizide is effective or if too much is being given. Your veterinarian should also discuss that Glipizide may initially be effective and then lose its effectiveness over the course of months.
Tell your veterinarian if your pet has a history of Addison's disease; thyroid, kidney or liver disease; or has had prolonged vomiting.
Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking and also if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.
What is the most important information I should know?
Know what signs to watch for to determine if your cat has high blood sugar (e.g., increased drinking, urination and hunger) or low blood sugar (e.g., weakness, collapse, coma). Contact your veterinarian immediately if you see these signs.
Strictly follow your veterinarian's directions on how to give Glipizide and how to feed your cat.
Who should not take it?
Not for use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to Glipizide or sulfa drugs. Do not use in animals with untreated diseases of the adrenal or pituitary glands or those with liver, kidney, or thyroid disease. Glipizide is not effective in treating cats with complications of diabetes such as diabetic coma, acidosis, ketosis, or insulin resistance. The safe use of Glipzide in pregnant animals has not been determined.
What side effects may be seen when taking Glipizide?
Vomiting may occur. It is temporary and should stop in 2-5 days. A sudden lowering of the blood sugar may occur when treatment is first started. Uncommon side effects include suppression of the bone marrow. This may lead to anemia, with pale gums, weakness, and lethargy; bruising or bleeding tendencies; and decreased white blood cell counts, which may cause the animal to be more at risk of infections. Contact your veterinarian if you observe any of these effects.
If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.
How is it stored?
Store at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant, container. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, contact your veterinarian immediately. Signs of an overdose may include depression, weakness, seizures, collapse, or coma.
What should I avoid when giving my pet Glipizide?
Notify your veterinarian of any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, your pet is taking while your pet is receiving Glipizide. Glipizide may interact with antifungal medications such as ketoconazole, some heart medications, cimetidine, corticosteroids such as prednisone, certain diurectics ("water pills"), thyroid medications, sulfa drugs, and warfarin, as well as other medications.
Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the
Patient Information Sheet on this medication. | 
