Glibenclamide
Brand names Calabren, Daonil, Diabetamide, Euglucon, Libanil, Malix, Semi-Daonil.
Used in the following combined preparations None
GENERAL INFORMATION
Glibenclamide is an oral antidiabetic drug belonging to the sulphonylurea class.
Like other drugs of this type, glibenclamide stimulates the production and secretion of insulin from the islet cells in the pancreas and promotes the uptake of sugar into body cells, thereby lowering the level of sugar in the blood.
This drug is used in the treatment of adult (maturity-onset) diabetes mellitus, in conjunction with a diabetic diet low in carbohydrates and fats.
In conditions of severe illness, injury, or stress, glibenclamide may lose its effectiveness, making insulin injections necessary.
Adverse effects are generally mild. Symptoms of poor diabetic control will occur if the dosage of glibenclamide is not appropriate.
INFORMATION FOR USERS
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken
Tablets.
Frequency and timing of doses
Once daily in the morning with breakfast.
Adult dosage range
5-15mg daily.
Onset of effect
Within 3 hours.
Duration of action
10-15 hours.
Diet advice
A low-carbohydrate, low-fat diet must be maintained in order for the drug to be fully effective. Follow the advice of your doctor.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children. Protect from light.
Missed dose
Take before your next meal.
Stopping the drug
Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor; stopping the drug may lead to worsening of your diabetes.
OVERDOSE ACTION
Seek immediate medical advice in all oases. If any early warning symptoms of excessively low blood sugar (such as faintness, sweating, trembling, confusion, or headache) occur, eat or drink something sugary. Take emergency action if fits or loss of consciousness occur.
See Drug poisoning emergency guide.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
Serious adverse effects with glibenclamide are rare. More common symptoms, often accompanied by hunger, may be signs of
low blood sugar due to lack of food or too high a dose of the drug.
INTERACTIONS
General note
A variety of drugs may reduce the effect of glibenclamide and so may raise blood sugar levels. These include corticosteroids, oestrogens,
diuretics, and rifampicin. Other drugs increase the risk of low blood sugar. These include warfarin, sulphonamides, aspirin, and beta blockers.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Oral antidiabetic drug.
Overdose danger rating High
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic Yes
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
You have long-term liver or kidney problems.
You are allergic to sulphonamide drugs.
You have thyroid problems.
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
Not usually prescribed. Insulin is generally substituted in pregnancy because it gives better diabetic control.
Breast-feeding
The drug passes into the breast milk, but at normal doses adverse effects on the baby are unlikely. Discuss with your doctor.
Infants and children
Not prescribed.
Over 60
Reduced dose may be necessary. Greater likelihood of low blood sugar exists when glibenclamide is used.
Driving and hazardous work
Usually no problems. Avoid these activities if you have warning signs of low blood sugar.
Alcohol
Avoid. Alcoholic drinks may upset diabetic control.
Surgery and general anaesthetics
Surgery may alter the effect of this drug on diabetes; insulin treatment may need to be substituted.
PROLONGED USE
No problems expected.
Monitoring Regular monitoring of levels of sugar in the urine or blood is required. Periodic assessment of the eyes, heart, and kidneys may also be advised.
