Glibenclamide

Glibenclamide Introduction

Glibenclamide is a sulfonylurea class oral hypoglycemic drug used in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus. It works by stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin, thus helping to regulate blood sugar levels. It is generally taken in combination with regular exercise and a healthy diet.

Uses for Glibenclamide

Glibenclamide is used to lower blood sugar levels in people with Type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is often used in combination with other medications, exercise, and changes in diet.

Brand Name	Glibenclamide
Type
Weight
Generic	Glibenclamide
Manufacturer
Available in	English বাংলা

Mechanism of Action

Glibenclamide stimulates the release of insulin from the pancreas, which helps to regulate blood sugar levels. It binds to the ATP-sensitive potassium channel on the cell membrane of beta cells in the pancreas, thus stimulating the release of insulin.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

Glibenclamide usually takes about 4-6 weeks to take effect. However, it may take longer in some individuals.

Absorption

Glibenclamide is rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.

Route of Elimination

Glibenclamide is metabolized in the liver and is eliminated mainly in the urine.

Dosage, Administration, and Overdose

The recommended starting dose of glibenclamide is 5 mg taken once or twice daily.
The dose may be adjusted in increments of 5 mg as needed to achieve optimal glycemic control.
Glibenclamide should be taken with food.
It should be taken at the same time each day.
Overdose of glibenclamide may result in hypoglycemia and should be treated accordingly.

Side Effects

Common side effects of glibenclamide include headache, nausea, dizziness, and insomnia. Less common side effects include liver or kidney problems, rash, and joint pain. In rare cases, severe hypoglycemia has been reported with glibenclamide use.

Toxicity

Glibenclamide is generally well tolerated and overdose is typically not serious. However, it may cause severe hypoglycemia, which can be life-threatening if untreated.

Precautions

Glibenclamide should not be used by people with type 1 diabetes.
It should not be used by pregnant women, as it can cause fetal harm.
It should be used with caution in people with kidney or liver disease.
It should be used with caution in the elderly, as they are at an increased risk for hypoglycemia.
People who use glibenclamide should have their blood sugar levels periodically monitored.

Interaction

Glibenclamide may interact with other medications, supplements, and foods. Common interactions include alcohol, certain antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and sulfa medications. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of the medications and supplements you are taking before starting glibenclamide.

Disease Interactions

Glibenclamide should be used with caution in people with certain medical conditions, such as kidney or liver disease, as it may worsen their condition. It should also be used with caution in people with heart failure. People with type 1 diabetes should not use glibenclamide.

Drug Interactions

Glibenclamide may interact with medications used to treat other medical conditions. Common drug interactions include alcohol, certain antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and sulfa medications. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of the medications and supplements you are taking before starting glibenclamide.

Food Interactions

Glibenclamide should be taken with food as food may affect its absorption. Certain foods may interact with glibenclamide and should be avoided. These include high-fat meals, alcoholic beverages, and foods high in iron or calcium. Therefore, it is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about any food interactions you may experience while taking glibenclamide.

Pregnancy Use

Glibenclamide should not be used during pregnancy, as it can cause fetal harm. If you become pregnant while taking glibenclamide, you should stop taking it and contact your doctor immediately.

Lactation Use

It is not known if glibenclamide passes into breast milk. Therefore, it should be used with caution in breastfeeding mothers, and only if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. If you are breastfeeding while taking glibenclamide, you should check with your doctor.

Acute Overdose

Overdose of glibenclamide may result in hypoglycemia. Symptoms of hypoglycemia may include nausea, headache, blurred vision, confusion, dizziness, sweating, and fatigue. If you experience symptoms of hypoglycemia, contact your doctor immediately.

Contraindication

Glibenclamide should not be used in people with type 1 diabetes, as it can be harmful to them. It should also not be used in people who are allergic to it or any other sulfonylurea medications.

Use Direction

Glibenclamide should be taken with food.
The recommended starting dose is 5 mg taken once or twice daily.
The dose may be adjusted in increments of 5 mg as needed to achieve optimal glycemic control.
It should be taken at the same time each day.
It should not be used in people with type 1 diabetes.
It should not be used by pregnant women, as it can cause fetal harm.

Storage Conditions

Glibenclamide should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture, light, and heat. It should be kept out of the reach of children and stored in a tightly closed container.