Glipizide

What is glipizide?

Glipizide (brand name: Glucotrol®) is an anti-diabetic medication used to treat type 2 diabetes in pets that are responsive to the medication, or when an alternative to needles is preferred.

Its use in cats to treat high blood sugar/diabetes is off label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How is glipizide given?

• Glipizide is given by mouth in the form of a tablet.
• Give with food.

This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 hours; however, effects may not be noted outwardly, so laboratory tests may be needed to evaluate this medication’s effectiveness.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

Glipizide may cause the following side effects:

• Lack of appetite
• Vomiting

Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving glipizide and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Increased liver enzymes
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes
• Continued vomiting or lack of appetite
• Bleeding, bruising
• Fever
• Muscle twitching, seizures
• Weakness, collapse, paralysis
• Depression

This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE glipizide in pets that:

• Are allergic to it or other sulfonamides
• Have trauma or infection
• Have diabetic coma, low blood sugar, or diabetic ketoacidosis

USE WITH CAUTION in pets that:

• Have adrenal, thyroid, kidney, or liver disease
• Have prolonged vomiting
• Have fever
• Have a debilitated condition
• Are pregnant or nursing (only if necessary)

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Several medications should be used with caution when given with glipizide, including:

• Azole antifungals
• Beta-blockers
• Corticosteroids
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• Phenothiazines
• Sulfonamides
• Thiazide diuretics
• Thyroid agents

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• For the first month, your veterinarian will request a physical exam every week, where they will check weight, blood sugar levels, and urine glucose tests.
• Your veterinarian will monitor your pet to make sure this medication is working. If blood sugar levels do not improve, or if the medication stops working, your veterinarian will likely need to switch your pet to injectable insulin.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store glipizide?

Store the tablets at room temperature, protected from light.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms. If your pet is showing signs of low blood sugar (weakness, passing out, seizures, or muscle twitching), rub some honey or corn syrup (Karo syrup) on the gums.