Diabetes can affect pets as much as it affects humans. Diabetes may come in different forms ? but it is still a silent killer that everybody should be wary about. Glipizide is one of the many drugs used to treat diabetes in dogs. Dogs with low insulin levels will benefit greatly from this drug. It's good to know more about this drug, how to use it, and how it can possibly help your pet conquer its disease.

What is Glipizide?

Glipizide is a prescription drug used to control blood sugar level. This drug was actually created for humans, although it has eventually found its true calling in veterinary medicine. Even so, the FDA has yet to approve it for animal use. Glipizide contains sulfonylurea, an effective anti-diabetic agent.

How does Glipizide work?

When taken orally in the right dosage, Glipizide works to stimulate the pancreas and initiate insulin production. This is why this drug is recommended mostly for insulin deficient diabetics. With enough insulin, the body?s processes are restored to its natural state. However, Glipizide can only help in managing the disease. It isn?t a cure for diabetes. The true cure for this disease is yet to be discovered.

How should I give Glipizide to my pet?

Glipizide comes in tablet form. As such, it is supposed to be given orally to pets. Your vet will tell you the right dose for your dog and instruct you with the proper way of administering the drug. Normally though, one 5mg tablet taken twice a day is sufficient for most dogs. Glipizide is usually given with meals and water. Read the label very carefully and follow the instructions of your veterinarian strictly. When giving Glipizide to your pet, you have to be very careful about the dosage and frequency required.

Is the drug safe?

Glipizide is a safe drug if used as prescribed. Listen to the veterinarian carefully for the proper instructions on how to give each dosage to your pet. However, have some side effects that you might want to take note of too. Also, it shouldn?t be combined with certain medicines.

Are there side effects?

Glipizide may cause certain side effects and this is the reason why using it should be done only under a health expert?s supervision. The known side effects of this drug are lowered body temperature, nervousness, vomiting, headaches, and confusion. When any of these is observed in your pet or if you notice anything unusual in its behavior, inform the vet right away.

What are the drug's precautions?

Before giving Glipizide to your dog, you have to inform the vet who is attending to your pet all about its medical history. The vet has to know if your dog has previously suffered from any injury, illness, liver diseases, kidney problems, thyroid diseases, or any types of infections. It is also important to indicate if your dog is lactating or pregnant before using any medicines. Doing so will allow the vet to adjust the dosage as necessary or change the prescription altogether. Also, you are not supposed to give your dog other medicines along with Glipizide without the necessary clearance.

Are there drugs that could interfere with Glipizide?

Certain drugs are not meant to be combined with Glipizide. These drugs are aspirin, NSAIDs, MAOI, steroids, phenothiazine, and beta blockers. If your pet is under medication and uses these medicines, the vet may have to look for alternatives to give your pet. Other drugs, regardless if they are prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, or herbal remedies, have to be cleared with the vet first before giving it to your pet. Glipizide may react negatively with some formulas. Make sure that you follow the necessary precautions.

Is there a risk for overdose?

Be very careful when giving Glipizide to your pet to minimize the risks of overdose. Glipizide overdose has symptoms such as anxiety, hunger, weakness, nausea, unconsciousness, and drowsiness. If you suspect overdose, call the vet right away for immediate treatment.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

Never make up for a missed dose at any time. If you miss a dose, go on to the next schedule, more so if it is almost time for it. Give your dog its medicine the moment you remember it so it won?t overlap with the next one. Don?t give your dog two doses at once. If you do, you will put your pet at risk of overdose.

How should I store Glipizide?

As with other medicines, you have to keep this drug out of children?s reach. Put Glipizide along with any other medicines you use for pets. Never store it in a medicine cabinet containing human medications. Glipizide should be stored at room temperature and in a cool, dry spot. Keep it away from moisture, direct sunlight, or too much heat. The tablets may crack or break when exposed to extreme elements.

Where can I buy Glipizide?

Glipizide is a prescription drug currently sold at pharmacies and licensed online drugstores. The medicine is normally sold in a 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg tablet forms. There are two types, the immediate release and extended release tablets. Get the one that your vet has prescribed. You need to secure the appropriate prescription from a licensed veterinarian or health practitioner so the pharmacy will sell you the drug.

Where can I find more information?

Glipizide is a drug made by Pfizer, although there are now several generic versions of this medicine. You can get adequate information from the actual manufacturer?s website, from the veterinarian, or a pharmacist. Ask these experts about anything that you may need to know about the drug before giving it to your pet.