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Glimepiride, sulfonylureas and Sulfanamides

SaskiaKC

SaskiaKC

Expert
Messages
6,312
Type of diabetes
Type 2
Treatment type
Tablets (oral)
My new doctor prescribed a new drug for me. Glimepiride, 3 days ago. I haven't started it yet.
Tonight I looked it up online and learned it is a sulfonylurea. I am very allergic to sulfanamides, and tonight I learned that some people who are allergic to Sulfanamides are also allergic to sulfonylureas.
Now I don't want to start this drug at all. I don't want to risk a suppressed-breathing episode like the one I had several years ago when a different, new, doctor prescribed a new blood pressure medication that was a sulfa drug.

My labs were very high last Friday because I had been eating very badly for the past 3 months.

I can eat better. I have already started. Two days in, I am eating well.

I'm scared. I'm old and I already take more meds than I like. I'm scared to not take a new med but I am also scared of a sulfonylurea.

I want to try a new doctor but I'm scared they could prescribe even scarier drugs.
 
I would have another conversation with my GP, explain the concerns about starting a drug with a potential risk of allergic reaction. I would ask if I tighten up my diet could I have three months to improve my numbers with out altering drugs. Remember ultimately it’s up to you what you take. Just make sure they know what you are and aren’t taking to keep your records up to date.
 
SaskiaKC said:
Thank you. That sounds like a good idea. And a good reminder that it is up to me what I take. I tend to forget that. Cheers.
Click to expand...
I need to remember this too although it's the other way round for me - I'm anticipating being recommended an SGLT2i at my upcoming review and I'd rather have Gliclazide which I've tolerated well before.

I don't want to seem rude or uncooperative but I don't want to take a new drug with a risk of some pretty horrible side effects (my dad has just been prescribed dapagliflozin and had thrush within 48 hours of starting it, so I'm highly likely to be in the same boat, especially as my BGs are higher than his).

Sorry, that's a bit off topic. Wishing you luck with your careful eating!
 
you could be as well to ask a pharmacist it will b a lot quicker than getting a Dr appointment
 
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