Question 1

What is Tolazamide?

Accepted Answer

Tolazamide is a blood sugar lowering drug that belongs to the sulfonylurea class of medications. It functions primarily by stimulating the release of insulin from the pancreas, which assists the body in regulating blood sugar levels.

In addition to its effect on insulin release, this medication may also help improve the body's response to insulin. It is used as a tool for glucose control to help maintain healthy sugar levels within the body.

Question 2

What is Tolazamide used for?

Accepted Answer

Tolazamide is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus .

Question 3

How does Tolazamide work?

Accepted Answer

How Tolazamide Works

Tolazamide belongs to a class of medications known as sulfonylureas. It works primarily by triggering the beta cells in the pancreas to produce and secrete more insulin. Insulin is a hormone that allows the body to move sugar (glucose) from the blood into the cells, where it is used for energy.

Because this medication relies on the body's ability to produce insulin, it is only effective for people with type 2 diabetes whose pancreases still function. It is not used to treat type 1 diabetes, a condition where the body does not produce any insulin.

Additional Effects

While the main function of tolazamide is to increase insulin secretion, it may also help lower blood sugar through other mechanisms, especially with long-term use. These may include:

Increasing the sensitivity of body tissues to insulin, allowing the body to use its own insulin more effectively.

Reducing the amount of sugar that the liver produces and releases into the blood.

By keeping blood sugar levels within a target range, tolazamide helps manage diabetes and may reduce the risk of long-term health complications associated with high blood sugar.

Question 4

What are the brand names for Tolazamide?

Accepted Answer

Tolazamide is sold under the brand name Tolinase .

Question 5

What are the active ingredients in Tolazamide?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredient in Tolazamide is tolazamide .

Question 6

What are the side effects of Tolazamide?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Tolazamide may include:

Hypoglycemia

Nausea

Weight gain

Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 7

What drug class is Tolazamide?

Accepted Answer

Tolazamide belongs to the sulfonylurea drug class.

Question 8

What is the dosage of Tolazamide and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

How to Take

Tolazamide comes as a tablet to be taken by mouth. It is usually taken once a day with breakfast or the first main meal of the day. In some cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe the medication to be taken twice daily.

To help manage blood sugar effectively, take this medication at the same time(s) every day. It should be used in conjunction with the specific diet and exercise program recommended by your healthcare professional.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of tolazamide, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for one that was missed.

Question 9

Is Tolazamide safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

The use of tolazamide during pregnancy should be discussed with a healthcare provider. It is typically only used if the potential benefits justify the potential risks to the fetus. Many experts recommend using insulin during pregnancy to maintain blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible, as abnormal blood sugar levels are associated with a higher risk of congenital abnormalities.

If tolazamide is used during pregnancy, it is often discontinued at least two weeks before the expected delivery date. This precaution is taken because some newborns have experienced severe and prolonged low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) when the mother was taking similar medications at the time of delivery.

Breastfeeding

It is currently unknown if tolazamide passes into human breast milk. However, other medications in the same class (sulfonylureas) are known to be excreted in milk. Because of the risk of low blood sugar in the nursing infant, a decision must be made whether to stop nursing or stop the medication, depending on the mother's medical needs. If the medication is stopped, insulin therapy may be considered if diet alone is not enough to control blood sugar.

Question 10

What forms and strengths does Tolazamide come in?

Accepted Answer

Available Forms

Tolazamide is available in the following form:

Oral Tablet: This medication is taken by mouth.

The tablets are designed to be swallowed. The physical appearance, including color and shape, may vary depending on the manufacturer. Some tablets are scored, which allows them to be divided if necessary.

Question 11

What is the FDA approval status of Tolazamide?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval and Indications

Tolazamide is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is indicated for use in adults to lower blood glucose levels when diet and exercise alone are insufficient. It is not indicated for the treatment of type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.

Cardiovascular Mortality Warning

The labeling for tolazamide includes a special warning regarding the risk of cardiovascular mortality. This warning is based on the University Group Diabetes Program (UGDP) study, which suggested that oral hypoglycemic agents may be associated with increased cardiovascular risks compared to treatment with diet alone or diet plus insulin. This warning is a standard requirement for drugs in the sulfonylurea class.

Pharmacogenomic Labeling

The FDA includes tolazamide in its records of drugs with pharmacogenomic biomarkers in the labeling. Specifically, patients with a glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency may be at a higher risk of developing hemolytic anemia while taking sulfonylureas. The FDA recommends caution when prescribing this medication to patients with this genetic condition, and healthcare providers may consider alternative treatments.

Question 12

What should I know about Tolazamide and cost?

Accepted Answer

Generic Availability

Tolazamide is available as a generic drug. Generic medications are required to have the same active ingredients, strength, and dosage form as brand-name drugs, but they are usually sold at a lower price point.

Insurance and Medicare Coverage

Most health insurance plans and Medicare Part D programs cover generic tolazamide. The specific out-of-pocket cost or copayment depends on the individual's insurance plan and the drug's tier on their formulary list.

Factors Influencing Cost

The total price paid for tolazamide can vary based on several factors:

Pharmacy Choice: Prices may differ between retail pharmacy chains, independent pharmacies, and mail-order services.

Dosage and Quantity: The prescribed strength (such as 100 mg, 250 mg, or 500 mg) and the number of tablets dispensed will affect the final cost.

Savings Programs: Patients may be able to reduce costs by using pharmacy discount cards or comparing prices at different locations.

Tolazamide

Medication Quick Facts

📋Overview

What It's Used For

How It Works

Brand Names

Side Effects

Warnings & Precautions

Dosage & How to Take

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Forms & Strengths

FDA / Regulatory Status

Price Information

FAQ

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