Diabinese

In addition, the effectiveness of any oral antidiabetic, including Diabinese, may decrease with time. This may occur because of either a diminished responsiveness to the medication or a worsening of the diabetes.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Diabinese

When you take Diabinese with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is important that you consult with your doctor before taking Diabinese with the following:

• Anabolic steroids
• Aspirin in large doses
• Barbiturates such as secobarbital
• Beta-blocking blood pressure medications such as atenolol and propranolol
• Calcium-blocking blood pressure medications such as diltiazem and nifedipine
• Chloramphenicol
• Warfarin
• Diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide
• Epinephrine
• Estrogen medications
• Isoniazid
• Major tranquilizers such as chlorpromazine and thioridazine
• MAO inhibitor-type antidepressants such as phenelzine and tranylcypromine
• Nicotinic acid
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents such as ibuprofen and naproxen
• Oral contraceptives
• Phenothiazines
• Phenylbutazone
• Phenytoin
• Probenecid
• Steroids such as prednisone
• Sulfa drugs such as sulfamethoxazole
• Thyroid medications such as levothyroxine

Avoid alcohol since excessive alcohol consumption can cause low blood sugar, breathlessness, and facial flushing.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Diabinese during pregnancy have not been adequately established. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant you should inform your doctor immediately. Since studies suggest the importance of maintaining normal blood sugar (glucose) levels during pregnancy, your physician may prescribe injected insulin.

To minimize the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in newborn babies, Diabinese, if prescribed during pregnancy, should be discontinued at least 1 month before the expected delivery date.

Since Diabinese appears in breast milk, it is not recommended for nursing mothers. If diet alone does not control glucose levels, then insulin should be considered.