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Glipizide

Brand names: Glucotrol, Glucotrol XL

Glipizide is a sulfonylurea that helps the pancreas release more insulin to lower blood sugar in type 2 diabetes.

Brand namesGlucotrol, Glucotrol XL
Type of medicineSulfonylurea (diabetes medicine)
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It's often added to metformin. Because it pushes insulin out, it can cause low blood sugar.

What it's used for

  • Type 2 diabetes

How to take it

  • Take the regular tablet about 30 minutes before a meal.
  • Take extended-release tablets with breakfast and swallow them whole.
  • Don't skip meals after taking it.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Low blood sugar
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea or diarrhea
  • Weight gain
Call 911Severe low blood sugar: confusion, seizure, or passing out
Call your provider todayFrequent low blood sugar episodes
Call your provider todayYellow skin or eyes

Warnings

  • Low blood sugar is more likely in older adults and with kidney or liver problems.
  • Not used for type 1 diabetes.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Alcohol, insulin, and other diabetes medicines add to the risk of low blood sugar.
  • Beta blockers can hide signs of low blood sugar.
  • Fluconazole and some other medicines raise its effect.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Usually switched to insulin in pregnancy. Talk with your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.