Orinase Information

Tolbutamide is an oral diabetes medicine that helps control blood sugar levels. This medication helps your pancreas produce insulin.

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

Tolbutamide should not be used by itself to treat type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes.
Tolbutamide may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Orinase (tolbutamide)?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to tolbutamide, or if you are in a state of diabetic ketoacidosis. Call your doctor for treatment with insulin.
Before taking tolbutamide, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, a disorder of your pituitary or adrenal glands, an enzyme deficiency called G6PD, a history of heart disease, or if you are malnourished.

Taking certain oral diabetes medications may increase your risk of serious heart problems. However, not treating your diabetes can damage your heart and other organs. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of treating your diabetes with tolbutamide.
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.

Tolbutamide 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.

What should I discuss with my doctor before taking Orinase (tolbutamide)?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to tolbutamide, or if you are in a state of diabetic ketoacidosis. Call your doctor for treatment with insulin.
If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use tolbutamide:

liver disease;
kidney disease;
a disorder of your pituitary or adrenal glands;

an enzyme deficiency called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD);

a history of heart disease; or

if you are malnourished.

Taking certain oral diabetes medications may increase your risk of serious heart problems. However, not treating your diabetes can damage your heart and other organs. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of treating your diabetes with tolbutamide. FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether tolbutamide is harmful to an unborn baby. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether tolbutamide passes into breast milk or if it could be harmful to a nursing baby. Do not take tolbutamide without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.