The effect of cholestyramine and activated charcoal on glipizide absorption

1. The interference of cholestyramine and activated charcoal with the absorption of glipizide was studied. 2. In a cross-over study comprising three phases, single doses of cholestyramine (8 g), activated charcoal (8 g) or water only were given to six healthy volunteers together with a single dose of glipizide. 3. The absorption of glipizide was moderately (29%, P less than 0.01) reduced by cholestyramine and greatly reduced (81%, P less than 0.01) by activated charcoal. 4. If cholestyramine and glipizide are used concomitantly, glipizide should be taken 1-2 h beforehand. In acute glipizide overdosage, activated charcoal can be used to reduce absorption.