GP and surgeon, Dr Shane Charles (MBBS, MRCS, PgDip SEM) provides a simple explanation of the medication below:

'Glimepiride is a medication that is used in the management of persons with high blood sugar (Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).'.

If you think Glimepiride is a treatment that can help you, start an online consultation now for a registered prescriber to review. If treatment is deemed suitable, they can prescribe it, and we can deliver it to you from the comfort of your own home with a range of convenient delivery and payment options for you to choose from. If you have any questions about a medication, you should always consult your doctor with any questions prior to starting treatment, to ensure that it is safe and suitable for you.

Glimepiride is a medication that is used to help treat type 2 diabetes. This is a condition that means that the body does not make enough insulin leading to high blood sugar levels.

Glimepiride belongs to a class of medications known as sulfonylurea drugs. It works by lowering your blood sugar by increasing the amount of insluin that your body produces. 

You should use your medication at the time you have been told to by your healthcare provider. The majority of people will take Glimepiride in the morning with breakfast as this medication needs to be taken with food.

You should only ever use the dosage of Glimepiride that you have been prescribed by your healthcare provider. The usual starting dose is 1mg taken once a day. Your dosage may be changed by your doctor. The maximum daily dosage is 6mg. 

Glimepiride is a suitable medication for people over the age of 18 years old who are suffering from type 2 diabetes and its symptoms. 

Glimepiride may not be a suitable medication for some people. This medication should not be used by people under the age of 18. This medication should not be used by anyone who is allergic to any of the ingredients in the medication. Do not use Glimepiride if:

• You have severe kidney or liver disease
• You have type 1 diabetes
• You have G6-PD deficiency, an inherited condition that affects the red blood cells
• You are due to have surgery

Glimepiride is not recommended for use during pregnancy as there is little information available about its safety. Your doctor may provide you with an alternative medication if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. 

No, it is not recommended to use Glimepiride whilst breastfeeding.  You may wish to speak to your healthcare provider for further advice. Blood sugar levels may be lowered in your baby, although evidence of this is not conclusive. 

Glimepiride may interact with other medications. It is important to let your healthcare provider know about any medications you are taking or have taken. Let your doctor know if:

• You are using steroid tablets such as prednisolone
• You are using medication to manage heart problems, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol
• You are using medication to treat bacterial or fungal infections
• You are using rifampicin, a medication used to treat tuberculosis
• You are using other diabetes medications

As with all other medications, some people may experience some side effects when they are using Glimepiride. Generally, Glimepiride does not cause any side effects. The most common side effects include:

• Low blood sugar
• Allergic reactions

To fully understand the warnings associated with Glimepiride it is important to read the patient information leaflet provided with the medication. 

You can purchase Glimepiride online from UK Meds which will be delivered to straight to your door.