Glibenclamide is a popular
anti-diabetic drug,
belonging to class of sulfonylureas. The drug is widely used for treating
type II diabetes.
Brand Names of Glibenclamide
Diabeta, Micronase, Glynase, Euglucon
Uses of Glibenclamide
In every human body, there is a hormone
called insulin produced by the pancreas and helps in controlling sugar
levels in the blood. In type-II diabetic patients, insulin is produced in
less qualntity or the body is inefficient to produce insulin. In suc a case,
the blood sugar levels can become too high. The Glibenclamide medicine is
recommended by most doctors for treating people with type 2 diabetes .
Glibenclamide is a first line option for treating patients with non-insulin
dependent diabetes, patients who are not overweight, or who cannot take
metformin. It is used when diet and exercise have failed to control blood
sugar levels. This drug can also be used in combination with other
anti-diabetic medicines like as metformin under the trade names Glucovance
and Glibomet, to provide an effective control of blood sugar.
How does Glibenclamide Diabeta Works?
The drug works mainly by
stimulating the beta cells in the pancreas that produce insulin.
Glibenclamide causes the beta cells to produce more insulin, which in turn
helps to decrease the amount of sugar in the blood of people with type 2
diabetes. Single dose provokes a brisk release of insulin from pancreas. It
acts on beta cell membrane leading to enhanced calcium flux across it, hence
the degeneration.
Dosage of Glibenclamide Tablets
Glibenclamide tablets should
normally be taken with, or immediately after, breakfast or the first main
meal. Initially 2.5 mg daily as a single dose at breakfast, increasing
gradually by another 2-5 mg. Maximum 15 mg daily.
Side Effects of Glibenclamide
The drug has certain side effects,
that can affect individuals in different ways. The following are some of the
common side effects, that are often associated with the drug
- Blurred Vision
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Anorexia
- Pruritus
- Urticaria
- Sweating, paleness, headache
Glibenclamide not to be used in
- Type 1 (insulin dependent) diabetes
- Diabetic keto-acidosis
- Diabetic coma or precoma
- Severely decreased liver, kidney function
- Pregnant women
- Breastfeeding
- Hereditary blood disorders called porphyrias
Disclaimer: The above information is for general understanding
of the visitor. Please consult a registered medical practitioner before
taking the aforesaid medicine.