Glipizide

Glipizide in Dogs and Cats: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• Increases insulin secretion (if functional reserve of ß-cells), thereby reducing blood glucose.

Uses of Glipizide

• Management of type II diabetes mellitus in cats whose owners are unwilling or unable to give insulin.

Dose of Glipizide in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

Do not use.

Cats:

• Non-ketotic diabetes mellitus: 2.5–5 mg per cat p.o. q12h.
• Start at the lower end of the dose range, increasing the dose as required if no adverse effects are reported after 2 weeks.

Side Effects of Glipizide in Dogs and Cats

• Glipizide may cause GI disturbances (e.g. vomiting) and sensitivity reactions (e.g. jaundice, rashes, fever).
• May cause hypoglycaemia.

Contraindications of Glipizide in Dogs and Cats

• Do not use if ketosis is present.
• Do not use it if there is evidence of reduced hepatic or renal function.

Some Notes:

• Glipizide use may accelerate ß-cell loss.
• May be effective alone or administered with insulin to reduce insulin requirements.
• It is ineffective when there is an absolute insulin deficiency or when insulin resistance is present, or ketosis.
• An effect on blood glucose may not be seen for 4–8 weeks.
• Administer with food.
• Preferred to metformin and glibenclamide, as better researched.
• The effects of glipizide may be enhanced by ACE inhibitors, NSAIDs, chloramphenicol, potentiated sulphonamides and fluoroquinolones.