Is Glipizide and Metformin Used for Type 1 Diabetes?
Most people make insulin in their
pancreas, including those with
type 2 diabetes. However, in people with
type 1 diabetes, the pancreas does not make insulin (or not enough to control blood sugar levels).
Glipizide and metformin causes the cells inside the pancreas to make more insulin. But if insulin-producing cells do not work, as is the case with type 1
diabetes,
glipizide and
metformin will have little effect. This is the reason why glipizide and metformin is not used to treat type 1 diabetes. Instead, a person with type 1 diabetes needs to take insulin medication.
Why Is Glipizide and Metformin Used for Diabetes Treatment?
The main goal of any
diabetes treatment is to lower blood sugar levels (as measured by hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c]) enough to reduce the risk of developing problems related to diabetes
(see Diabetes Complications).
Treatment for type 2 diabetes typically begins with lifestyle changes (weight loss, dietary changes, and exercise). If lifestyle changes alone are not enough, however,
diabetes drugs, such as glipizide and metformin, may be necessary.
To learn more about controlling diabetes through lifestyle choices, click the following eMedTV links:
Is Glipizide and Metformin Used for Children?
Because glipizide and metformin has not been adequately studied in children, its use is not recommended. Talk to your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of using glipizide and metformin for type 2 diabetes in children.
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