A patient with type 2 diabetes has been prescribed glipizide, a sulfonylurea. Which common side effects should the nurse include in the discharge instructions?

Explanation

•Sulfonylureas stimulate insulin secretion from the pancreatic beta cells and increase insulin sensitivity, thereby inducing hypoglycemia.

•Common side effects of sulfonylureas include weight gain, hypoglycemia (due to increased insulin secretion), GI upset, diarrhea, rash (due to allergy), dizziness, nervousness, and tremors.

•Liver failure and ecchymosis (secondary to thrombocytopenia, or decreased platelets) are rare side effects related to glipizide use.

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