PTCE Top 200 · #42

Glipizide

Glucotrol

Glipizide is the generic name for the brand-name drug Glucotrol. It is a sulfonylurea used to treat type 2 diabetes. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Glipizide ranks #42 and is one of the most frequently tested endocrine/diabetes medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.

Generic nameGlipizide
Brand name(s)Glucotrol
Drug classSulfonylurea
Class groupEndocrine/Diabetes
Common usetype 2 diabetes
DEA scheduleUnscheduled
AvailabilityPrescription only (Rx)

What is Glipizide used for?

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus: improve glycemic control as an adjunct to diet and exercise.

What drug class is Glipizide?

Glipizide is a Sulfonylurea in the Endocrine/Diabetes group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.

Common side effects of Glipizide

Major interactions

Is Glipizide a controlled substance?

No. Glipizide is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).

How to remember Glipizide (PTCE mnemonic)

GLU-cotrol controls GLUcose — gli-PIZIDE makes pancreas release insulin. 30 min before meals; HYPO-glycemia + weight gain; no sulfa allergy.
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PTCE exam tip

Sulfonylureas like glipizide push insulin out — so unlike metformin, they CAN cause hypoglycemia. Take before a meal.

Glipizide FAQ

What is the brand name for Glipizide?

The brand name for Glipizide is Glucotrol.

What is Glipizide used for?

Glipizide is used to treat type 2 diabetes. • Type 2 diabetes mellitus: improve glycemic control as an adjunct to diet and exercise.

What drug class is Glipizide?

Glipizide is a Sulfonylurea (Endocrine/Diabetes group).

Is Glipizide a controlled substance?

No. Glipizide is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).

Related drugs in the Endocrine/Diabetes group

Drill Glipizide the way the PTCE asks it

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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).