Expert: Dr. Tatiana Yatsenko, PharmD - 4/8/2007

Question
Hi
I am a diabetic on oral meds I would like to know if you are taking glyburide and then take cipro what effects does this have on ones kidneys, I read that thos two meds should not be taken, unfortunate I was priscribe cipro and did not read any warnings regarding the glyburide and cipro combo.
               Thank you
              Mary McCauley

Answer
Hi Marcy,

Primarily, you should be conscientious in monitoring for disturbances of blood glucose, including hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia, because they have been reported in patients treated concomitantly with cipro and glyburide. Rare cases of severe hypoglycemia have been reported, therefore, careful monitoring of blood glucose is recommended.

Let me explain how the two meds you are on are excreted out of your body:
1. Glyburide: Excretion: Feces (50%) and urine (50%) as metabolites
2. Cipro:Excretion: Urine (30%-50% as unchanged drug); feces (15%-43%)

The above drugs are not "toxic" to your kidneys, however, kidneys are very vital in removing them from your system. If your kidneys are not very strong, then dose adjustments are necessary for the meds.

You said you were a diabetic. How long have you had diabetes? What is your HbA1c? Have you had problems with your kidneys in the past?

Most likely you will be off of Cipro pretty soon, just be very diligent at monitoring your blood glucose.

If you have any questions, please feel free to follow-up.
Dr Tatiana