Glucotrol is a brand name for the medication glipizide, which is used to treat type 2 diabetes by helping to lower blood sugar levels. Glipizide belongs to a class of medications called sulfonylureas, which work by stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin and increasing the sensitivity of the body's cells to insulin. It is usually taken by mouth and is available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations.
Glucotrol is a brand name for the medication glipizide, which is used to treat type 2 diabetes by helping to lower blood sugar levels. Glipizide belongs to a class of medications called sulfonylureas, which work by stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin and increasing the sensitivity of the body's cells to insulin. It is usually taken by mouth and is available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations.
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Glucotrol
Depletes
Prolonged use of Glucotrol can impact 5 essential nutrients.
CoQ10
Sulfonylureas, a class of anti-diabetic drugs, have been found in research to significantly deplete Coenzyme Q10 (COQ10). This nutrient may be beneficial to individuals with diabetes as it is found to assist: high blood pressure, decrease triglycerides, improve HDL cholesterol, and provide glycemic control.
Replace with Ubiquinol/Ubiquinone (50mg of each)
Research: Pelton R. Coenzyme Q10: A Miracle Nutrient Advances in Understanding. Integr Med (Encinitas). 2020 Apr;19(2):16-20. PMID:...
Also Benefits From:
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) displays several benefits that may be supportive in managing type 2 diabetes. Studies suggest ALA may offer improvements in blood sugar control, potentially by enhancing the body's sensitivity to insulin. Additionally, its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help combat oxidative stress associated with type 2 diabetes and its complications, potentially offering benefits for diabetic nerve problems.
Research: Ayman M Elbadawy, Rasha O. Abd Elmoniem & Amira M. Elsayed. (2021) Alpha lipoic acid and diabetes mellitus: potential...
Chromium Polynicotinate
Chromium Polynicotinate shows benefits for managing glucose control. Some studies suggest it may improve the body's sensitivity to insulin, a key hormone regulating blood sugar, potentially leading to better glucose absorption by cells. Additionally, certain studies have observed modest reductions in blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes after supplementation.
Research: Sharma S, Agrawal RP, Choudhary M, Jain S, Goyal S, Agarwal V. Beneficial effect of chromium supplementation on glucose,...
Gymnema sylvestre
Gymnema sylvestre is found to help support diabetes management. The plant boasts gymnemic acids, which may temporarily block sugar receptors on taste buds, leading to reduced cravings and potentially lower sugar intake. Additionally, some studies suggest Gymnema may lower blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Moreover, Gymnema may help stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin, potentially aiding blood sugar regulation.
Research: Devangan S, Varghese B, Johny E, Gurram S, Adela R. The effect of Gymnema sylvestre supplementation on glycemic control in...
Taurine
Taurine is shown to be beneficial in supporting diabetes management. Studies suggest that taurine supplementation might contribute to improved blood sugar control by lowering HBA1c, a long-term marker, and fasting blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. Additionally, it may enhance insulin sensitivity, allowing cells to utilize glucose more effectively. Taurine's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are also beneficial for mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation, which can contribute to diabetic complications like nerve damage and vision problems.
Research: Esmaeili F, Maleki V, Kheirouri S, Alizadeh M. The Effects of Taurine Supplementation on Metabolic Profiles, Pentosidine,...
Health Impact
Glucotrol-induced nutrient depletion can lead to a range of health problems
Statin-Related Muscle Pain & Fatigue
Randomized trials and meta-analyses in statin-treated patients have shown that CoQ10 depletion and/or low circulating levels are associated with muscle symptoms, while supplementation has produced mixed but suggestive improvements in statin-associated myalgia and muscle pain severity.
Research: Caso G et al. Effect of coenzyme Q10 on myopathic symptoms in patients treated with statins. Am J Cardiol....
Low Mitochondrial Energy & Antioxidant Defense
Mechanistic and clinical studies link lower CoQ10 status with impaired oxidative phosphorylation and higher markers of oxidative stress, particularly in tissues with high metabolic demand such as myocardium and skeletal muscle.
Research: Littarru GP, Tiano L. Clinical aspects of coenzyme Q10: cardiology and beyond. Antioxid Redox Signal....
Side Effects
Common side effects of Glucotrol, some of which may be related to nutrient depletion
Review
Common side effects of Glucotrol (glipizide), a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes, may include:
1. Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing 2. Liver problems 3. Pancreatitis 4. Hemolytic anemia 5. Photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sunlight) 6. Skin reactions such as blisters or peeling skin
It is important to consult with a healthcare provider if any side effects are experienced while taking Glucotrol.
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COQ 10 (as Ubiquinone)
by Life Extension
The CoQ10 supplement by Life Extension is a high-quality dietary supplement designed to support cellular energy production and antioxidant protection, utilizing a bioavailable form of Coenzyme Q10.