Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to pioglitazone or glimepiride; or to other "glitazones" (such as rosiglitazone); or to other sulfonylureas (such as glipizide, tolbutamide); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heart problems (such as heart failure), fluid in your lungs, swelling (edema, fluid retention), liver problems, kidney disease, thyroid problems, certain hormonal conditions (adrenal/pituitary insufficiency, syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone-SIADH), mineral imbalance (hyponatremia), anemia, eye (retina) problems, bladder cancer.

You may experience blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness due to extremely low or high blood sugar. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.

Limit alcohol while taking this medication because it can increase your risk of developing low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

It may be harder to control your blood sugar when your body is stressed (such as due to fever, infection, injury, or surgery). In these cases, consult your doctor because you may require a change in your treatment plan, medications, or blood sugar testing.

This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness.

This medication may increase the risk of bone fracture (such as upper arm, hand, foot, ankle) in female patients. To lower the chance of getting injured, use caution when doing activities such as contact sports.

Older adults maybe at greater risk for low blood sugar while using this drug.

This medication can cause changes in the menstrual cycle (promote ovulation) and increase the risk of becoming pregnant. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about the use of reliable birth control while using this medication.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Pregnancy may cause or worsen diabetes. Discuss a plan with your doctor for managing your blood sugar while pregnant. Your doctor may substitute insulin for this drug during pregnancy. If this medication is used, it may be switched to insulin at least 2 weeks before the expected delivery date because of the medication's risk of causing low blood sugar in your newborn. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Because of the possible risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while using this medication. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.