Generic Name: glycerin (rectal) (GLISS er in)
Brand names: Colace Glycerin Suppositories, Fleet Babylax, Fleet Glycerin Suppositories Adult, Fleet Glycerin Suppositories Pediatric, Glycerin Suppositories Maximum Strength, Pedia-Lax Liquid, Sani-Supp, …show all 21 brand names.Glycerin, Osmoglyn, Tixylix Baby, Glycerol Adult, Senokot Direct Relief, Glycerol, Ichthammol Glycerin, Ravin, Glycerol Infant, Glycerol Pediatric, Boots Cough Syrup 3 Months Plus, Gilseal Homecare Glycerol BP, Allens Junior Cough, Bandi S15

What is glycerin rectal?

Glycerin rectal is used as a laxative. It works by causing the intestines to hold more water, which softens the stool.

Glycerin rectal is used to treat constipation or to cleanse the bowel before a rectal exam or other intestinal procedure.

Glycerin rectal may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about glycerin rectal?

Before using glycerin rectal, tell your doctor if you have nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, rectal bleeding, a change in bowel habits that has lasted for 2 weeks or longer, toxic megacolon, or if you have used another laxative for longer than 1 week.

Do not take glycerin rectal by mouth. It is for use only in your rectum. Call your doctor if this medication does not cause you to have a bowel movement within 1 hour after use. Do not use glycerin rectal more than once in a 24-hour period. Do not use other laxatives in combination with glycerin rectal unless your doctor has told you to. Stop using glycerin rectal and call your doctor at once if you have severe stomach pain or cramping, bloody diarrhea, or severe rectal pain, bleeding, or irritation.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before using glycerin rectal?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to glycerin.

If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication. Before using glycerin rectal, tell your doctor if you have:

• nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain;

• rectal bleeding;

• a change in bowel habits that has lasted for 2 weeks or longer;

• intestinal blockage;

• ulcerative colitis, toxic megacolon; or

• if you have used another laxative for longer than 1 week.

It is not known whether glycerin rectal is harmful to an unborn baby when used during pregnancy. Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Do not use this medication in a child younger than 2 years old. Seek your doctor’s advice when using glycerin rectal in a child who is 2 to 5 years old.

How should I use glycerin rectal?

Do not take glycerin rectal by mouth. It is for use only in your rectum.

Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.

Do not use glycerin rectal more than once in a 24-hour period.

This medication comes with patient instructions for using either the rectal suppository or the rectal enema. Follow these directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Try to empty your bowel and bladder just before using the glycerin suppository or enema.

Remove the outer wrapper from the rectal suppository before inserting it. Avoid handling the suppository too long or it will melt in your hands.

You may wet the suppository first with a small amount of water to make it easier to insert. Gently insert the suppository into the rectum, pointed tip first. The suppository will begin to melt once inserted and you should feel little or no discomfort while holding it in.

You should have a bowel movement within 15 to 60 minutes after using the suppository.

To use the rectal enema or liquid suppository, remove the protective cap and gently insert the tip of the applicator or bulb syringe into the rectum. Do not force the applicator into the rectum or injury could result. Slowly squeeze the bottle to place the medicine into the rectum. You do not need to empty the bottle completely and there may be a small amount of liquid left in the bottle after use.

For best results after using glycerin rectal, stay lying down until you feel the urge to have a bowel movement.

Call your doctor if this medication does not cause you to have a bowel movement within 1 hour after use. Store the rectal enema at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Store the rectal suppositories at cool room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not refrigerate them unless directed on the medicine label.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since this medication is usually given only once as needed, you will not be on a dosing schedule. Do not use glycerin rectal more than once in a 24-hour period.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

If you use glycerin rectal as directed on the medicine label, an overdose is not likely to occur.

What should I avoid while using glycerin rectal?

Avoid using other laxatives in combination with glycerin rectal unless your doctor has told you to.

Glycerin rectal side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using glycerin rectal and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• severe stomach pain or cramping

• bloody diarrhea; or

• severe rectal pain, bleeding, or irritation.

Less serious side effects may include:

• diarrhea;

• nausea or stomach discomfort; or

• mild rectal pain or burning.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Glycerin Dosing Information

Usual Adult Dose for Constipation:

Hyperosmotic laxatives should be used infrequently in single doses.

Liquid suppositories: 5.6 g rectally once
Suppositories: 2 to 3 g rectally once

Usual Pediatric Dose for Constipation:

Hyperosmotic laxatives should be used infrequently in single doses.

Liquid suppositories:
2 to less than 6 years: 2.3 g rectally once
6 years or older: 5.6 g rectally once

Suppositories:
2 to less than 6 years: 1 to 1.7 g rectally once
6 years or older: 2 to 3 g rectally once

What other drugs will affect glycerin rectal?

There may be other drugs that can interact with glycerin rectal. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about glycerin rectal.

• Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
• Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by Cerner Multum, Inc. (‘Multum’) is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. Multum information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers in the United States and therefore Multum does not warrant that uses outside of the United States are appropriate, unless specifically indicated otherwise. Multum’s drug information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend therapy. Multum’s drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. Multum does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information Multum provides. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

Copyright 1996-2006 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 1.02. Revision Date: 4/12/2009 4:37:52 PM.

GLIS-er-in

Commonly used brand name(s):

In the U.S.

• Osmoglyn

In Canada

• Glycerin

Available Dosage Forms:

• Spray
• Solution

Therapeutic Class: Protectant, Dental

Pharmacologic Class: Diuretic, Osmotic

Uses For glycerin

Glycerin , when taken by mouth, is used to treat certain conditions in which there is increased eye pressure, such as glaucoma. It may also be used before eye surgery to reduce pressure in the eye.

Glycerin may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

glycerin is available only with your doctor’s prescription.

Once a medicine has been approved for marketing for a certain use, experience may show that it is also useful for other medical problems. Although this use is not included in product labeling, glycerin is used in certain patients with the following medical conditions:

• Cerebral edema (swelling of the brain)

Before Using glycerin

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For glycerin, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to glycerin or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

Although there is no specific information comparing use of glycerin in children with use in other age groups, glycerin is not expected to cause different side effects or problems in children than it does in adults.

Geriatric

Glycerin reduces water in the body, and there may be an increased risk that elderly patients taking it could become dehydrated.

Pregnancy

	Pregnancy Category	Explanation
All Trimesters	C	Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women OR no animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women.

Breast Feeding

There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.

Interactions with Medicines

Using glycerin with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

• Arsenic Trioxide

Using glycerin with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

• Licorice

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Other Medical Problems

The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of glycerin. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus—Use of glycerin may increase the chance of dehydration (loss of too much body water)

• Confused mental states or
• Heart disease or
• Kidney disease—Glycerin may make these conditions worse

Proper Use of glycerin

It is very important that you take glycerin only as directed. Do not take more of it and do not take it more often than your doctor ordered.

To improve the taste of glycerin, mix it with a small amount of unsweetened lemon, lime, or orange juice, pour over cracked ice, and sip through a straw.

Dosing

The dose of glycerin will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor’s orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of glycerin. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

• For oral dosage form (oral solution):
  • To lower pressure in the eye:
    • Adults—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The usual dose is 1 to 2 grams per kilogram (kg) (0.45 to 0.91 grams per pound) of body weight taken one time. Then, additional doses of 500 milligrams (mg) per kg (227 mg per pound) of body weight every six hours may be taken if needed.
    • Children—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The usual dose is 1 to 1.5 grams per kg (0.45 to 0.68 grams per pound) of body weight taken one time. The dose may be repeated in four to eight hours if needed.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of glycerin, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Precautions While Using glycerin

Your doctor should check your progress at regular visits to make sure that glycerin is working properly.

In some patients, headaches may occur when glycerin is taken. To help prevent or relieve the headache, lie down while you are taking glycerin and for a short time after taking it. If headaches become severe or continue, check with your doctor.

glycerin Side Effects

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common

• Confusion

Rare

• Irregular heartbeat

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

• Headache
• nausea or vomiting

Less common

• Diarrhea
• dizziness
• dryness of mouth or increased thirst

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

The information contained in the Thomson Reuters Micromedex products as delivered by Drugs.com is intended as an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment. It is not a substitute for a medical exam, nor does it replace the need for services provided by medical professionals. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over the counter drugs (including any herbal medicines or supplements) or following any treatment or regimen. Only your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for you.

The use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products is at your sole risk. These products are provided “AS IS” and “as available” for use, without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Thomson Reuters Healthcare and Drugs.com make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of any of the information contained in the products. Additionally, THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES AS TO THE OPINIONS OR OTHER SERVICE OR DATA YOU MAY ACCESS, DOWNLOAD OR USE AS A RESULT OF USE OF THE THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. Thomson Reuters Healthcare does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products.

Generic Name: Glycerin (GLIS-er-in)
Brand Name: Fleet and Fleet Babylax

Glycerin Enema is used for:

Relieving occasional constipation. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Glycerin Enema is a hyperosmotic laxative. It works by irritating the lining of the intestine and increasing the amount of fluid, making it easier for stools to pass.

Do NOT use Glycerin Enema if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Glycerin Enema
• you have a blockage in your digestive system
• you have undiagnosed abdominal pain

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Before using Glycerin Enema:

Some medical conditions may interact with Glycerin Enema. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

• if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
• if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
• if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
• if have appendicitis or rectal bleeding

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Glycerin Enema. However, no specific interactions with Glycerin Enema are known at this time.

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Glycerin Enema may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.

How to use Glycerin Enema:

Use Glycerin Enema as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

• Wash your hands before and after using Glycerin Enema.
• Lie on left side with knee bent and arms resting comfortably. You may also kneel, then lower head and chest forward until left side of face is resting on surface with left arm folded comfortably.
• Remove protective shield from enema tip.
• Gently insert enema tip into rectum using steady pressure with a slight side-to-side movement, with tip pointing toward navel. Do not force the enema tip into rectum because this can cause injury. Insertion may be easier if you bear down as if having a bowel movement because this helps to relax the muscles around the anus.
• Squeeze bottle until nearly all the liquid is gone. It is not necessary to empty the bottle completely because it contains more liquid than needed.
• Remove enema from rectum and maintain position until the urge to evacuate the bowels is strong (5 to 20 minutes if possible).
• If you miss a dose of Glycerin Enema, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses in the same day, unless directed otherwise by your doctor.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Glycerin Enema.

Important safety information:

• Glycerin Enema is for rectal use only.
• Do not use Glycerin Enema for longer than 1 week without checking with your doctor.
• Do not take Glycerin Enema without talking to your doctor if you have had a sudden change in bowel movements lasting longer than 2 weeks or you are experiencing nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain.
• Different products may have different dosing instructions for CHILDREN on the package labeling. Follow the dosing instructions provided on the package labeling or by your doctor. If you are unsure of what dose to give a child, check with your doctor.
• PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant while taking Glycerin Enema, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Glycerin Enema during pregnancy. It is unknown if Glycerin Enema is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using Glycerin Enema, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Possible side effects of Glycerin Enema:

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

Anal irritation; burning sensation; diarrhea; gas; nausea; stomach cramps.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); rectal bleeding.

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center (http://www.aapcc.org), or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include diarrhea; stomach cramps.

Proper storage of Glycerin Enema:

Store Glycerin Enema at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Glycerin Enema out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information:

• If you have any questions about Glycerin Enema, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
• Glycerin Enema is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
• If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Glycerin Enema. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

Generic Name: Glycerin (GLIS-er-in)
Brand Name: Examples include Colace Pediatric and Sani-Supp

Glycerin Suppositories are used for:

Relieving occasional constipation. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Glycerin Suppositories are a hyperosmotic laxative. It works by irritating the lining of the intestine and increasing the amount of fluid, making it easier for stools to pass.

Do NOT use Glycerin Suppositories if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Glycerin Suppositories
• you have a blockage in your digestive system
• you have undiagnosed abdominal pain

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Before using Glycerin Suppositories:

Some medical conditions may interact with Glycerin Suppositories. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

• if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
• if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement
• if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances
• if have appendicitis or rectal bleeding

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Glycerin Suppositories. However, no specific interactions with Glycerin Suppositories are known at this time.

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Glycerin Suppositories may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.

How to use Glycerin Suppositories:

Use Glycerin Suppositories as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

• Wash your hands before and after using Glycerin Suppositories.
• If the suppository is too soft to use, put it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes or run cold water over it. Then remove the wrapper and moisten the suppository with cool water. Lie down on your side. Insert the pointed end of the suppository into the rectum, then use your finger to push it in completely.
• If you miss a dose of Glycerin Suppositories, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses in the same day, unless directed otherwise by your doctor.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Glycerin Suppositories.

Important safety information:

• Glycerin Suppositories are for rectal use only.
• Do not use Glycerin Suppositories for longer than 1 week without checking with your doctor.
• Do not take Glycerin Suppositories without talking to your doctor if you have had a sudden change in bowel movements lasting longer than 2 weeks or you are experiencing nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain.
• Different products may have different dosing instructions for CHILDREN on the package labeling. Follow the dosing instructions provided on the package labeling or by your doctor. If you are unsure of what dose to give a child, check with your doctor.
• PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant while taking Glycerin Suppositories, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Glycerin Suppositories during pregnancy. It is unknown if Glycerin Suppositories are excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using Glycerin Suppositories, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Possible side effects of Glycerin Suppositories:

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

Anal irritation; burning sensation; diarrhea; gas; nausea; stomach cramps.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); rectal bleeding.

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center (http://www.aapcc.org), or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include diarrhea; stomach cramps.

Proper storage of Glycerin Suppositories:

Store Glycerin Suppositories at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Glycerin Suppositories out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information:

• If you have any questions about Glycerin Suppositories, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
• Glycerin Suppositories are to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
• If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Glycerin Suppositories. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

GLYE-bure-ide, met-FOR-min hye-droe-KLOR-ide

Commonly used brand name(s):

In the U.S.

• Glucovance

Available Dosage Forms:

• Tablet

Therapeutic Class: Hypoglycemic, Biguanide/Sulfonylurea Combination

Chemical Class: 2nd Generation Sulfonylurea

Uses For glyburide and metformin

Glyburide and metformin combination is used to treat high blood sugar levels caused by a type of diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes) called type 2 diabetes. Normally, after you eat, your pancreas releases insulin to help your body store excess sugar for later use. This process occurs during normal digestion of food. In type 2 diabetes, your body does not work properly to store excess sugar and the sugar remains in your bloodstream. Chronic high blood sugar can lead to serious health problems in the future.

Proper diet is the first step in managing type 2 diabetes, but often medicines are needed to help your body. With two actions, the combination of glyburide and metformin helps your body cope with high blood sugar. Glyburide causes your pancreas to release more insulin into the bloodstream. Metformin reduces the absorption of sugar, reduces the release of stored sugar from the liver, and helps your body’s cells use sugar better.

glyburide and metformin is available only with your doctor’s prescription.

Before Using glyburide and metformin

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For glyburide and metformin, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to glyburide and metformin or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of glyburide and metformin combination in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Geriatric

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of glyburide and metformin combination in the elderly. However, elderly patients are more likely to have age-related kidney problems which may require caution and an adjustment in the dose for patients receiving glyburide and metformin combination.

Pregnancy

	Pregnancy Category	Explanation
All Trimesters	B	Animal studies have revealed no evidence of harm to the fetus, however, there are no adequate studies in pregnant women OR animal studies have shown an adverse effect, but adequate studies in pregnant women have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus.

Breast Feeding

There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.

Interactions with Medicines

Using glyburide and metformin with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

• Acetrizoic Acid
• Bosentan
• Diatrizoate
• Ethiodized Oil
• Iobenzamic Acid
• Iobitridol
• Iocarmic Acid
• Iocetamic Acid
• Iodamide
• Iodipamide
• Iodixanol
• Iodohippuric Acid
• Iodopyracet
• Iodoxamic Acid
• Ioglicic Acid
• Ioglycamic Acid
• Iohexol
• Iomeprol
• Iopamidol
• Iopanoic Acid
• Iopentol
• Iophendylate
• Iopromide
• Iopronic Acid
• Ioseric Acid
• Iosimide
• Iotasul
• Iothalamate
• Iotrolan
• Iotroxic Acid
• Ioversol
• Ioxaglate
• Ioxitalamic Acid
• Ipodate
• Metrizamide
• Metrizoic Acid
• Tyropanoate Sodium

Using glyburide and metformin with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

• Acarbose
• Alatrofloxacin
• Balofloxacin
• Cimetidine
• Ciprofloxacin
• Clinafloxacin
• Disopyramide
• Dofetilide
• Enoxacin
• Fleroxacin
• Flumequine
• Gatifloxacin
• Gemifloxacin
• Grepafloxacin
• Levofloxacin
• Lomefloxacin
• Moxifloxacin
• Norfloxacin
• Ofloxacin
• Pefloxacin
• Prulifloxacin
• Rufloxacin
• Sparfloxacin
• Temafloxacin
• Tosufloxacin
• Trovafloxacin Mesylate

Using glyburide and metformin with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

• Acebutolol
• Aceclofenac
• Acemetacin
• Alclofenac
• Alprenolol
• Apazone
• Aspirin
• Atenolol
• Benoxaprofen
• Betaxolol
• Bevantolol
• Bisoprolol
• Bitter Melon
• Bromfenac
• Bucindolol
• Bufexamac
• Carprofen
• Carteolol
• Carvedilol
• Celiprolol
• Cephalexin
• Clarithromycin
• Clometacin
• Clonixin
• Clorgyline
• Colesevelam
• Cyclosporine
• Dexketoprofen
• Diclofenac
• Diflunisal
• Dilevalol
• Dipyrone
• Droxicam
• Enalaprilat
• Enalapril Maleate
• Esmolol
• Etodolac
• Etofenamate
• Felbinac
• Fenbufen
• Fenoprofen
• Fentiazac
• Fenugreek
• Floctafenine
• Flufenamic Acid
• Flurbiprofen
• Gemfibrozil
• Glucomannan
• Guar Gum
• Ibuprofen
• Indomethacin
• Indoprofen
• Iproniazid
• Isocarboxazid
• Isoxicam
• Ketoprofen
• Ketorolac
• Labetalol
• Levobunolol
• Lornoxicam
• Meclofenamate
• Mefenamic Acid
• Meloxicam
• Mepindolol
• Metipranolol
• Metoprolol
• Moclobemide
• Nabumetone
• Nadolol
• Naproxen
• Nebivolol
• Nialamide
• Niflumic Acid
• Nimesulide
• Oxaprozin
• Oxprenolol
• Oxyphenbutazone
• Pargyline
• Penbutolol
• Phenelzine
• Phenylbutazone
• Pindolol
• Pirazolac
• Piroxicam
• Pirprofen
• Procarbazine
• Propranolol
• Propyphenazone
• Proquazone
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• Timolol
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• Topiramate
• Tranylcypromine
• Voriconazole
• Warfarin
• Zomepirac

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Using glyburide and metformin with any of the following is usually not recommended, but may be unavoidable in some cases. If used together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use glyburide and metformin, or give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco.

• Ethanol

Other Medical Problems

The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of glyburide and metformin. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Alcohol intoxication or
• Underactive adrenal glands or
• Underactive pituitary gland or
• Undernourished condition or
• Weakened physical condition or
• Any other condition that causes low blood sugar—Patients with these conditions may be more likely to develop low blood sugar while taking glyburide and metformin combination.

• Blood poisoning or
• Dehydration, severe or
• Heart or blood vessel disorders—Lactic acidosis can occur in these conditions and chances of it occurring are even greater with a medicine that contains metformin.

• Diabetic ketoacidosis (high ketones and acid in the blood) or
• Kidney disease, severe or
• Type I diabetes—Should not be used in patients with these conditions.

• Fever or
• Infection or
• Surgery or
• Trauma—These conditions may cause temporary problems with blood sugar control and your doctor may want to treat you temporarily with insulin.

• Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency (an enzyme problem)—May cause hemolytic anemia (a blood disorder) in patients with this condition.

• Heart attack, acute or
• Heart disease (e.g., congestive heart failure) or
• Vitamin B12 deficiency—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse.

• Kidney disease or
• Liver disease—Use with caution. Effects may be increased because of slower removal of the medicine from the body.

Proper Use of glyburide and metformin

Follow carefully the special meal plan your doctor gave you. This is the most important part of controlling your diabetes, and is necessary if the medicine is to work properly. Also, exercise regularly and test for sugar in your blood or urine as directed.

glyburide and metformin comes with a patient information insert. Read and follow the instructions carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.

Glyburide and metformin combination should be taken with meals to help reduce the stomach adverse effects that may occur during the first few weeks of treatment.

Dosing

The dose of glyburide and metformin will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor’s orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of glyburide and metformin. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

• For oral dosage form (tablets):
  • For type 2 diabetes:
    • For first-time treatment:
      • Adults—At first, 1.25 milligrams (mg) of glyburide and 250 mg of metformin one or two times a day with meals. Your doctor may increase your dose a little at a time every two weeks until your blood sugar is controlled. However, the dose is usually not more than 20 mg of glyburide and 2000 mg of metformin per day.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    • For patients previously treated with a sulfonylurea antidiabetic agent and/or metformin:
      • Adults—At first, 2.5 milligrams (mg) of glyburide and 500 mg of metformin or 5 mg of glyburide and 500 mg of metformin two times a day, with the morning and evening meals. Your doctor may increase your dose a little at a time until your blood sugar is controlled. However, the dose is usually not more than 20 mg of glyburide and 2000 mg of metformin per day.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of glyburide and metformin, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Precautions While Using glyburide and metformin

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure glyburide and metformin is working properly. Blood tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.

Under certain conditions, too much metformin can cause lactic acidosis. The symptoms of lactic acidosis are severe and quick to appear. They usually occur when other health problems not related to the medicine are present and very severe, such as a heart attack or kidney failure. The symptoms of lactic acidosis include abdominal or stomach discomfort; decreased appetite; diarrhea; fast, shallow breathing; a general feeling of discomfort; muscle pain or cramping; and unusual sleepiness, tiredness, or weakness. If you have any symptoms of lactic acidosis, get emergency medical help right away.

It is very important to carefully follow any instructions from your health care team about:

• Alcohol—Drinking alcohol may cause severe low blood sugar. Discuss this with your health care team.
• Other medicines—Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This especially includes nonprescription medicines such as aspirin, and medicines for appetite control, asthma, colds, cough, hay fever, or sinus problems.
• Counseling—Other family members need to learn how to prevent side effects or help with side effects if they occur. Also, patients with diabetes may need special counseling about diabetes medicine dosing changes that might occur because of lifestyle changes, such as changes in exercise and diet. Furthermore, counseling on contraception and pregnancy may be needed because of the problems that can occur in patients with diabetes during pregnancy.
• Travel—Keep your recent prescription and your medical history with you. Be prepared for an emergency as you would normally. Make allowances for changing time zones and keep your meal times as close as possible to your usual meal times.
• In case of emergency—There may be a time when you need emergency help for a problem caused by your diabetes. You need to be prepared for these emergencies. It is a good idea to wear a medical identification (ID) bracelet or neck chain at all times. Also, carry an ID card in your wallet or purse that says that you have diabetes and a list of all your medicines.

Check with your doctor right away if you start having chest pain or discomfort; nausea; pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck; shortness of breath; sweating; or vomiting while you are using glyburide and metformin. These may be symptoms of a serious heart problem, and could be a heart attack.

Glyburide and metformin combination can cause low blood sugar. However, it also can occur if you delay or miss a meal or snack, drink alcohol, exercise more than usual, cannot eat because of nausea or vomiting, take certain medicines, or take glyburide and metformin combination with another type of diabetes medicine. Symptoms of low blood sugar must be treated before they lead to unconsciousness (passing out). Different people feel different symptoms of low blood sugar. It is important that you learn which symptoms of low blood sugar you usually have so that you can treat it quickly and call someone on your healthcare team right away when you need advice.

Symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) include anxiety; behavior change similar to being drunk; blurred vision; cold sweats; confusion; cool, pale skin; difficulty with thinking; drowsiness; excessive hunger; fast heartbeat; headache (continuing); nausea; nervousness; nightmares; restless sleep; shakiness; slurred speech; or unusual tiredness or weakness.

If symptoms of low blood sugar occur, eat glucose tablets or gel, corn syrup, honey, or sugar cubes; or drink fruit juice, non-diet soft drink, or sugar dissolved in water. Also, check your blood for low blood sugar. Glucagon is used in emergency situations when severe symptoms such as seizures (convulsions) or unconsciousness occur. Have a glucagon kit available, along with a syringe or needle, and know how to use it. The members of your household also should know how to use it.

Symptoms of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) include blurred vision; drowsiness; dry mouth; flushed, dry skin; fruit-like breath odor; increased urination (frequency and volume); ketones in urine; loss of appetite; sleepiness; stomachache, nausea, or vomiting; tiredness; troubled breathing (rapid and deep); unconsciousness; or unusual thirst.

High blood sugar may occur if you do not exercise as much as usual, have a fever or infection, do not take enough or skip a dose of your diabetes medicine, or overeat or do not follow your meal plan.

If symptoms of high blood sugar occur, check your blood sugar level and then call your doctor for instructions.

glyburide and metformin may interact with the dye used for an X-ray or CT scan. Your doctor should advise you to stop taking it before you have any medical exams or diagnostic tests that might cause less urine output than usual. You may be advised to start taking the medicine again 48 hours after the exams or tests if your kidney function is tested and found to be normal.

Do not take glyburide and metformin if you are also using bosentan (Tracleer®). Also, make sure your doctor knows about all other medicines you are using for diabetes, including insulin.

glyburide and metformin Side Effects

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

• Anxious feeling
• behavior change similar to being drunk
• blurred vision
• cold sweats
• confusion
• convulsions (seizures)
• cool pale skin
• cough
• difficulty in concentrating
• drowsiness
• excessive hunger
• fast heartbeat
• fever
• headache (continuing)
• nausea
• nervousness
• nightmares
• restless sleep
• shakiness
• slurred speech
• sneezing
• sore throat
• unconsciousness
• unusual tiredness or weakness

Rare

• Abdominal or stomach discomfort
• decreased appetite
• diarrhea
• fast shallow breathing
• general feeling of discomfort
• muscle pain or cramping
• unusual sleepiness

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

• Dizziness
• headache
• vomiting

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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Brand names: Glucovance

Why is Glyburide, Metformin prescribed?

Glucovance is used in the treatment of type 2 (noninsulin dependent) diabetes. Diabetes develops when the body’s ability to burn sugar declines and the unused sugar builds up in the bloodstream. Ordinarily, sugar is moved out of the blood and into the body’s cells by the hormone insulin. A buildup occurs when the body either fails to make enough insulin or doesn’t respond to it properly.

Glucovance is a combination of 2 drugs—glyburide and metformin—that attack high blood sugar levels in several ways. The glyburide component stimulates the pancreas to produce more insulin and helps the body use it properly. The metformin component also encourages proper insulin utilization, and in addition works to decrease sugar production and absorption.

Glucovance is prescribed when diet and exercise prove insufficient to keep blood sugar levels under control. Glucovance can also be combined with other diabetes drugs such as Avandia.

Most important fact about Glyburide, Metformin

Very rarely, Glucovance has been known to cause a dangerous condition called lactic acidosis, a buildup of lactic acid in the blood. Lactic acidosis is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment in the hospital. Notify your doctor without delay if you experience any of the following symptoms:

A slow or irregular heartbeat; a cold, dizzy, or light-headed feeling; a weak, tired, or uncomfortable feeling; stomach discomfort; trouble breathing; unusual muscle pain

How should you take Glyburide, Metformin?

Glucovance is taken once or twice a day with meals.

• If you miss a dose…
  Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

• Storage instructions…
  Store at room temperature and protect from light.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Glucovance.

• Side effects may include:
  Cold sweats, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, hunger, nausea, shakiness, stomach pain, upper respiratory infections, vomiting

Why should Glyburide, Metformin not be prescribed?

Glucovance is processed primarily by the kidneys, and can build up to excessive levels in the body if the kidneys aren’t working properly. It should be avoided if you have kidney disease or your kidney function has been impaired by a condition such as shock, blood poisoning, or a heart attack. It should also be avoided if you need to take medicine for congestive heart failure, and you’ll probably be unable to use it if you have liver disease.

If you need to have an x-ray procedure done, find out if it requires injection of a contrast agent. If so, Glucovance will have to be temporarily discontinued. (Check with your doctor for instructions; do not discontinue the drug on your own.)

If you have ever had an allergic reaction to metformin, glyburide, or diabetes medications similar to glyburide, you should not take Glucovance. It also should not be prescribed if you have acute or chronic metabolic acidosis.

Special warnings about Glyburide, Metformin

Avoid excessive alcohol intake while taking Glucovance. Heavy drinking increases the danger of lactic acidosis and can also trigger an attack of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

Missed meals, malnutrition, general debility, liver or kidney problems, other medications, and over-exertion also increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Symptoms of a mild case include cold sweats, dizziness, shakiness, and hunger. Severe hypoglycemia can lead to seizures and coma. If you notice any of the warning signs, check with your doctor immediately.

Lactic acidosis also becomes more likely when you become dehydrated. If you experience severe vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or if your fluid intake is significantly reduced, tell your doctor.

Taking Glucovance with certain diabetes drugs, such as rosiglitazone, can increase the risk of hypoglycemia, weight gain, and liver problems. Your doctor will periodically test your liver function to guard against any problems.

Glucovance occasionally causes a mild deficiency of vitamin B₁₂. Your doctor will check annually and may prescribe a supplement if necessary.

Some experts suspect that the glyburide component of Glucovance may lead to more heart problems than treatment with diet alone. In a long-term trial of a similar drug, researchers noted an increase in heart-related deaths (though the overall mortality rate remained unchanged). If you have a heart condition, you may want to discuss this potential risk with your doctor.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Glyburide, Metformin

If Glucovance is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either drug could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Glucovance with the following:

Airway-opening drugs such as Proventil and Ventolin
Beta-blockers (heart and blood-pressure drugs such as atenolol and metoprolol)
Birth control pills
Calcium channel blockers (heart medications) such as nifedipine and verapamil
Chloramphenicol
Ciprofloxacin
Estrogens
Furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide and other diuretics
Isoniazid
Major tranquilizers such as chlorpromazine
MAO inhibitors such as the antidepressants phenelzine and tranylcypromine
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen
Niacin
Phenytoin
Probenecid
Steroids such as prednisone
Sulfa drugs such as sulfamethoxazole
Thyroid medications such as levothyroxine
Warfarin

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Glucovance is not recommended during pregnancy. To control blood sugar during this crucial period, most doctors prefer insulin instead of Glucovance. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.

You’ll also need to avoid Glucovance while breastfeeding. If blood sugar becomes a problem, your doctor can prescribe insulin.

Recommended dosage for Glyburide, Metformin

ADULTS

Your doctor will start therapy at a low dose and increase it until your blood sugar levels are under control.

For patients not previously treated with diabetes medications

The recommended starting dose is 1.25 milligrams of glyburide with 250 milligrams of metformin once or twice daily with meals. The dosage can be increased every two weeks until blood sugar levels are controlled. The maximum recommended daily dosage of Glucovance for previously untreated patients is 10 milligrams of glyburide with 2,000 milligrams of metformin.

For patients previously treated with glyburide (or a similar drug) or metformin:

The recommended starting dose of Glucovance is either 2.5 or 5 milligrams of glyburide with 500 milligrams of metformin twice daily with meals. The maximum recommended daily dosage of Glucovance for previously treated patients is 20 milligrams of glyburide with 2,000 milligrams of metformin.

CHILDREN

Glucovance is not for use in children.

OLDER ADULTS

Since kidney function declines with age, it should be closely monitored in people taking Glucovance after age 65. Older patients are usually not prescribed the maximum recommended dose of Glucovance.

Overdosage

An overdose of Glucovance can cause an attack of hypoglycemia requiring immediate treatment. If you experience any of the symptoms listed in “Special warnings about Glyburide, Metformin,” see a doctor immediately.

An excessive dose of Glucovance can also trigger lactic acidosis. If you begin to notice the warning signs listed in “Most important fact about Glyburide, Metformin,” seek emergency treatment.

Generic Name: hydrocortisone topical (hye droe KOR ti sone)
Brand Names: Ala-Cort, Ala-Scalp HP, Aquanil HC, Beta HC, Caldecort, Cortaid, Cortaid Intensive Therapy, Cortaid Maximum Strength, Cortaid with Aloe, Cortalo with Aloe, Corticaine, Cortizone for Kids, Cortizone-10, Cortizone-10 Intensive Healing Formula, Cortizone-10 Plus, Cortizone-5, Dermarest Dricort, Dermarest Eczema Medicated, Dermarest Plus Anti-Itch, Dermtex HC, Genasone/Aloe, Gly-Cort, Gynecort Maximum Strength, Hycort, Hydrocortisone 1% In Absorbase, Hydrocortisone with Aloe, Hydrocortisone-Aloe, Hytone, Instacort, Itch-X Lotion, Locoid, Locoid Lipocream, Locoid Lotion, Massengill Medicated Soft Cloth, MD Hydrocortisone, Neutrogena T-Scalp, NuCort with Aloe, NuZon, Pandel, Recort Plus, Rederm, Sarnol-HC, Scalacort, Texacort, U-Cort, Westcort

What is Gly-Cort (hydrocortisone topical)?

Hydrocortisone is a topical steroid. It reduces the actions of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, redness, and swelling.

Hydrocortisone topical is used to treat inflammation of the skin caused by a number of conditions such as allergic reactions, eczema, or psoriasis.

Hydrocortisone topical may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Gly-Cort (hydrocortisone topical)?

There are many brands and forms of hydrocortisone topical available and not all brands are listed on this leaflet.

Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as it has been prescribed by your doctor. Do not use the medication in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.

Do not cover treated skin areas with a bandage or other covering unless your doctor has told you to. If you are treating the diaper area of a baby, do not use plastic pants or tight-fitting diapers. Covering the skin that is treated with hydrocortisone topical can increase the amount of the drug your skin absorbs, which may lead to unwanted side effects. Follow your doctor’s instructions.

Avoid using this medication on your face, near your eyes, or on body areas where you have skin folds or thin skin.

Do not use this medication on a child without a doctor’s advice. Children are more sensitive to the effects of hydrocortisone topical.

Hydrocortisone topical will not treat a bacterial, fungal, or viral skin infection.

Contact your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it gets worse after using this medication for several days.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Gly-Cort (hydrocortisone topical)?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to hydrocortisone.

Hydrocortisone topical will not treat a bacterial, fungal, or viral skin infection.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether hydrocortisone topical is harmful to an unborn baby. Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether hydrocortisone topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not use this medication on a child without a doctor’s advice. Children are more sensitive to the effects of hydrocortisone topical.

How should I use Gly-Cort (hydrocortisone topical)?

Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as it has been prescribed by your doctor. Do not use the medication in larger or smaller amounts, or use it for longer than recommended.

Hydrocortisone topical will not treat a bacterial, fungal, or viral skin infection.

Wash your hands before and after each application, unless you are using hydrocortisone topical to treat a hand condition.

Apply a small amount to the affected area and rub it gently into the skin.

Avoid using this medication on your face, near your eyes or mouth, or on body areas where you have skin folds or thin skin.

Do not cover treated skin areas with a bandage or other covering unless your doctor has told you to. If you are treating the diaper area of a baby, do not use plastic pants or tight-fitting diapers. Covering the skin that is treated with hydrocortisone topical can increase the amount of the drug your skin absorbs, which may lead to unwanted side effects. Follow your doctor’s instructions. Contact your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it gets worse after using this medication for several days. It is important to use hydrocortisone topical regularly to get the most benefit. Store hydrocortisone topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and use the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine, or if anyone has accidentally swallowed it. An overdose of hydrocortisone topical applied to the skin is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms.

What should I avoid while using Gly-Cort (hydrocortisone topical)?

Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, mouth, and nose, or on your lips. If it does get into any of these areas, wash with water. Do not use hydrocortisone topical on sunburned, windburned, irritated, or broken skin. Also avoid using this medication in open wounds.

Avoid using skin products that can cause irritation, such as harsh soaps or shampoos or skin cleansers, hair coloring or permanent chemicals, hair removers or waxes, or skin products with alcohol, spices, astringents, or lime. Do not use other medicated skin products unless your doctor has told you to.

Gly-Cort (hydrocortisone topical) side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using hydrocortisone topical and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• blurred vision, or seeing halos around lights;

• uneven heartbeats;

• sleep problems (insomnia);

• weight gain, puffiness in your face; or

• feeling tired.

Less serious side effects may include:

• skin redness, burning, itching, or peeling;

• thinning of your skin;

• blistering skin; or

• stretch marks.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Gly-Cort (hydrocortisone topical)?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied hydrocortisone. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about hydrocortisone topical.

• Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
• Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by Cerner Multum, Inc. (‘Multum’) is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. Multum information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers in the United States and therefore Multum does not warrant that uses outside of the United States are appropriate, unless specifically indicated otherwise. Multum’s drug information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend therapy. Multum’s drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. Multum does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information Multum provides. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

Copyright 1996-2006 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 8.03. Revision Date: 08/14/2009 11:55:43 AM.