Managing Side Effects of Amaryl: An Overview
Amaryl, a popular oral tablet used for managing type 2 diabetes, is well-known for its common side effects such as headache, nausea, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), weight gain, and dizziness [1][3][4]. However, there are some less common side effects that may not be as prominently listed in standard prescribing information.
These less common side effects include allergic skin reactions like rash, itching, or urticaria, hepatic dysfunction or elevated liver enzymes that could potentially lead to liver failure in rare cases, and hematologic issues like anemia or thrombocytopenia [1][3][4]. Visual disturbances, pancreatitis, severe hypoglycemia requiring hospitalisation, and rarely, lactic acidosis have also been reported [1][3][4]. Long-term use of Amaryl may lead to vitamin B12 deficiency [1][3][4].
It's important to note that these effects are considered rare or serious but less frequently encountered compared to common side effects. However, they are crucial for clinical awareness, especially for potential liver, blood, and pancreas complications [1][2][3].
Patients with severe liver or kidney disease are at higher risk for some of these adverse effects, especially severe hypoglycemia and hepatic complications, and require careful monitoring [1][2][3].
Contrary to popular belief, Amaryl does not typically cause kidney problems, but if you have kidney problems, your doctor may recommend a lower dose [1][3].
It is recommended that people taking Amaryl during pregnancy stop treatment with the drug at least 14 days before giving birth [1][3]. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) tracks side effects of Amaryl, and you can report any side effects to the FDA through MedWatch [1][3].
Interestingly, while clinical trials did not report hair loss as a side effect of Amaryl, it is possible that the medication may cause hair loss [1][3].
Moreover, your doctor may recommend limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption during Amaryl treatment due to the increased risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) [1][3]. Headaches were the most common side effect in clinical trials of Amaryl [1][3].
Lastly, it's essential to remember that different strengths of Amaryl (e.g., 3-mg and 4-mg doses) may cause different side effects [1][3]. Severe dizziness may be a symptom of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) while taking Amaryl [1][3]. Amaryl can increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) occurring in a child up to 10 days after birth [1][3].
Amaryl is a brand-name oral tablet for type 2 diabetes, available in a generic version called glimepiride [1][3]. However, it's not known if this medication can pass into breast milk or what effects the drug may have on a child who is breastfed [1][3].
In conclusion, while Amaryl is a widely used medication for managing type 2 diabetes, it's essential to be aware of both common and less common side effects. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice and monitoring.
[1] Drugs.com. (2021). Amaryl. Retrieved from https://www.drugs.com/amaryl.html [2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Amaryl. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/amaryl-oral-route/description/drg-20076961 [3] RxList. (2021). Amaryl. Retrieved from https://www.rxlist.com/amaryl-drug.htm [4] WebMD. (2021). Amaryl. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-10351/amaryl-oral/details
- Less common side effects of Amaryl, a medication for type 2 diabetes, can include allergic skin reactions, hepatic dysfunction, hematologic issues, visual disturbances, pancreatitis, severe hypoglycemia, lactic acidosis, and, in rare cases, liver failure.
- Amaryl may lead to potential liver, blood, and pancreas complications, especially for patients with severe liver or kidney disease, and requires careful monitoring.
- It is crucial to note that while clinical trials did not report hair loss as a side effect of Amaryl, it is possible that the medication may cause hair loss.
- People taking Amaryl during pregnancy are advised to stop treatment with the drug at least 14 days before giving birth.
- The Food and Drug Administration tracks side effects of Amaryl, and you can report any side effects to the FDA through MedWatch.
- Your doctor may recommend limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption during Amaryl treatment due to the increased risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
- Different strengths of Amaryl may cause different side effects, and severe dizziness may be a symptom of hypoglycemia.
- Amaryl can increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) occurring in a child up to 10 days after birth, and it's not known if this medication can pass into breast milk.
