Chlorpropamide

About chlorpropamide

This belongs to the group of medicines known as oral antidiabetics.

Chlorpropamide can be used to treat Type 2 (non-insulin dependent) diabetes mellitus.

Insulin is made naturally in the pancreas. It regulates the level of sugar in the blood. If the body does not make enough insulin to meet its needs, or does not properly use the insulin it makes, this results in the condition called diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes). Chlorpropamide works by increasing the amount of insulin the pancreas secretes.

Chlorpropamide is available in tablet form.

Before taking chlorpropamide

Before taking chlorpropamide make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from kidney or liver problems
• if you are an insulin dependent diabetic
• if you are currently suffering from ketoacidosis
• if you have ever suffered from heart problems
• if you suffer from porphyria (a blood disorder) or other blood disorders
• if you have an infection
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal/complementary medicines and those available to buy without a prescription.

How to take chlorpropamide

• Take chlorpropamide exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the printed information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Try to take this medicine at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses.
• Take your medicine with breakfast or as directed by your doctor or diabetic nurse.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember (with food) and take your next dose at the usual time, unless, it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case leave out the missed dose. Never take two doses at the same time to make up. If in doubt speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of chlorpropamide go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside chlorpropamide.
• It is IMPORTANT that you follow any dietary instructions that you have been given by your doctor or diabetic nurse.
• If you are having any surgery including dental you must inform your dentist or doctor you are taking chlorpropamide.
• Check with your doctor Before taking up any new physical exercise, as this will have a long lasting effect on your blood sugar levels.
• You must keep your regular appointment with your doctor or diabetic nurse. Your doctor may want to adjust the dose of chlorpropamide you are taking. DO NOT stop taking this medicine without speaking to your doctor or diabetic nurse first.
• You must test for sugar in the blood or urine regularly to check your diabetes is being well controlled.
• Avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol affects your blood sugar level and can cause your face to flush, when taken with chlorpropamide. If you do drink alcohol, drink only a little and be aware of its effects on you.
• Chlorpropamide may cause your skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than usual. Avoid sunlight and sun beds and use a sun protection cream higher than factor 15 until you know how your skin reacts.
• Chlorpropamide may cause constipation. Constipation can often be eased by eating plenty of fruit and vegetables and by drinking plenty of water.

Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar)

• Hypoglycaemia is likely to occur if you miss a meal, if you exercise more than usual, if you cannot eat because of sickness or if you drink a lot of alcohol.
• The symptoms to look out for include anxious feeling, cold sweats, confusion, headache, feeling sick, being sick, nervousness, palpitations (being aware of your heartbeat), shaking, unusual tiredness, or weakness, visual problems. Eat something containing sugar such as glucose tablets, biscuits or a sugary drink (not diet) and follow this up with a starchy snack, such as a sandwich to raise your blood sugar.
• Check with your doctor or diabetic nurse straight away, because you may get further attacks over the next few days. The dose of your tablets may need to be altered. Severe symptoms of hypoglycaemia such as convulsions and unconsciousness require IMMEDIATE medical attention.
• Drivers should take special care on long journeys. Driving is not permitted when you are unable to recognise the warning signs of a hypoglycaemic attack.

Hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar)

• Symptoms usually appear more slowly than those of low blood sugar. These symptoms may occur if you over eat, if you miss a dose of your medicine, if you do not follow a proper diet, if you have a fever or infection.
• Symptoms of high blood sugar include drowsiness, flushed face, fruity smell on breath, increased urination (passing water), loss of appetite or unusual thirst. Severe symptoms may include rapid pulse and heavy breathing.
• If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned check with your doctor or diabetic nurse immediately.

Can chlorpropamide cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects, which may improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor if any of the following symptoms continue or become troublesome.

Feeling sick, being sick, pins and needles, tummy pain, facial-flushing, loss of appetite, diarrhoea or constipation.

Important: If you experience a skin rash, itching, fever (high temperature), jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), joint pains, swelling of the tongue, throat or face you should go to the hospital immediately.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store chlorpropamide

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2006   Updated: 14/02/2006