Brand Names: Tolinase

Generic Name: tolazamide (Pronunciation: tole AZ a mide)

• What is tolazamide (Tolinase)?
• What are the possible side effects of tolazamide (Tolinase)?
• What is the most important information I should know about tolazamide (Tolinase)?
• What should I discuss with my doctor before taking tolazamide (Tolinase)?
• How should I take tolazamide (Tolinase)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Tolinase)?
• What happens if I overdose (Tolinase)?
• What should I avoid while taking tolazamide (Tolinase)?
• What other drugs will affect tolazamide (Tolinase)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is tolazamide (Tolinase)?

Tolazamide is an oral diabetes medicine that helps control blood sugar levels. This medication helps your body respond better to insulin produced by your pancreas.

Tolazamide is used together with diet and exercise to treat type 2 (non-insulin dependent) diabetes. Other diabetes medicines are sometimes used in combination with tolazamide if needed.

Tolazamide may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Tolazamide 250 mg-ZEN

round, white, imprinted with Z 2979

What are the possible side effects of tolazamide (Tolinase)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is the most common side effect of tolazamide. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include headache, nausea, hunger, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, blurred vision, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, trouble concentrating, confusion, or seizure (convulsions). Watch for signs of low blood sugar. Carry a piece of non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you in case you have low blood sugar.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• chest pain, shortness of breath, feeling like you might pass out;
• easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness; or
• extreme thirst with headache, nausea, vomiting, and weakness.

Less serious side effects may include:

• dizziness or weakness;
• headache, tired feeling;
• mild nausea, heartburn, full feeling;
• skin rash, redness, or itching; or
• increased skin sensitivity to sunlight.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about tolazamide (Tolinase)?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to tolazamide, or if you are in a state of diabetic ketoacidosis. Call your doctor for treatment with insulin.

Before taking tolazamide, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, or a history of heart disease.

Take care to keep your blood sugar from getting too low, causing hypoglycemia. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include headache, nausea, hunger, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, blurred vision, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, or trouble concentrating. Carry a piece of non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you in case you have low blood sugar. Also be sure your family and close friends know how to help you in an emergency.

Also watch for signs of blood sugar that is too high (hyperglycemia). These symptoms include increased thirst, loss of appetite, increased urination, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dry skin, and dry mouth. Check your blood sugar levels and ask your doctor how to adjust your medication doses if needed.

Tolazamide is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet, exercise, weight control, and testing your blood sugar. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely. Changing any of these factors can affect your blood sugar levels.