DIAMICRON MR (GLICLAZIDE)

Diamicron MR Description

Diamicron MR or generic Gliclazide is an oral sulphonylureas drug that may be prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes if you find that diet, exercise, and losing weight is still not enough to maintain a safe blood glucose level. This medication does not work for type 1 diabetes as the pancreas is no longer able to produce insulin. As weight gain is a potential side effect, your doctor may not recommend Diamicron MR if you are overweight. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How Diamicron MR Works in Your Body

When taken as directed, Diamicron MR (modified release) works in your pancreas by binding to a channel of proteins that sets in motion a sequence of events that leads to an increase in the amount of insulin the beta cells produce in your pancreas. Insulin is essential for regulating glucose levels in your bloodstream and signals your liver, muscle, and fat cells to store the glucose to be used as energy when it’s needed. These cells will only be accessed by insulin, otherwise the extra glucose will remain in your bloodstream.

Conditions Treated by Diamicron MR

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is more prevalent than type 1 and some individuals may be able to keep glucose levels under control by eating healthier, losing weight, and staying active. However, there are some risk factors that cannot be controlled that can raise your chances of becoming diabetic which include; age, genetics, and ethnicity.

As time goes on, your beta cells become less responsive to producing insulin so you may need medications that can either boost your beta cells to increase insulin production or insulin meds to add to your own insulin. Eventually, your beta cells give up and no longer produce any insulin. Monitoring your blood glucose levels is extremely important so you will be aware of any changes that may require your doctor to change or adjust your Diamicron MR dosage.

Before Starting on Diamicron MR

Before receiving a prescription to buy Diamicron MR, advise your doctor of any other medical conditions and allergies you may have and provide a list of current Rx drugs and over the counter medications you take, including supplements. This will help the doctor determine if Diamicron MR is the right medication for you or if there may be any dosage changes needed for your meds.

You may not be able to safely take Diamicron MR if:

• You are pregnant or breastfeeding
• You are allergic to other sulphonylureas medications
• You have severe kidney or liver disease
• You have unstable diabetes or ketoacidosis

Diamicron MR Precautions

Inform medical staff that you are taking Diamicron MR if you are scheduled for any dental or surgical procedure as you may need to stop taking it for a time before undergoing surgery. If you experience dizziness, confusion, or a rapid heartbeat, your blood sugar may be too low and you need to have salted crackers, hard candies, or a non-diet pop handy to bring your glucose up.

Possible Side Effects of Diamicron MR

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Weakness
• Weight changes