What is this medication for?
Glyburide is an antidiabetes medication that belongs to the family of medications known as sulfonylureas. It is used to treat high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) in people with type 2 diabetes. Antidiabetes medications such as glyburide are used when diet, exercise, and weight reduction have not been found to lower blood sugar well enough on their own. Glyburide increases the release of insulin (a hormone produced by the pancreas that allows sugar to enter into cells where it is needed for energy) and helps the body use insulin more efficiently.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
DiaBeta® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended adult dose of glyburide ranges from 1.25 mg once daily to 10 mg twice daily. Glyburide should be taken during or immediately after a meal, usually with breakfast or the first main meal of the day. The dose of glyburide usually starts at 2.5 mg to 5 mg daily and may be increased or decreased until blood glucose is controlled. The maximum dose of glyburide is 20 mg daily.
It is very important to monitor blood glucose levels closely. Your doctor or diabetes educator will instruct you on the best use of a blood glucose monitor.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Glyburide should not be taken by anyone who:
- is allergic to glyburide or any of the ingredients of the medication
- has diabetic ketoacidosis, with or without coma
