Brand name None
Used in the following combined preparations None
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Drug for diabetes
Overdose danger rating High
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic Yes
GENERAL INFORMATION
Glibenclamide is an oral antidiabetic drug belonging to the sulphonylurea class. Like other drugs of this type, it stimulates the production and secretion of insulin from the islet cells in the pancreas. This promotes the uptake of sugar into body cells, thereby lowering the blood sugar level.
Glibenclamide is used in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, in conjunction with exercise and a diet that is low in sugar and fats.
In conditions of severe illness, injury, or stress, glibenclamide may lose its effectiveness, making insulin injections necessary. Adverse effects are generally mild. The commonest side effect is hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar). 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/used 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 An individualized diabetic diet must be maintained in order for the drug to be fully effective. Follow the advice of your doctor.
Storage Keep in original container at room temperature out of the reach of children. Protect from light.
Missed dose Take with next meal; do not double the dose to account for missed dose.
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 cases. If any early warning symptoms of excessively low blood sugar (such as fainting, sweating, trembling, confusion, or headache) occur, eat or drink something sugary. Take emergency action if seizures or loss of consciousness occur.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
Serious adverse effects are rare with glibenclamide. Symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, confusion, weakness, tremor, and sweating may be signs of low blood sugar due to lack of food or too high a dose of the drug. If any such symptoms occur, eat or drink something sugary immediately and seek medical assistance. Other possible adverse effects include constipation, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, rash, itching, and weight changes. Discuss with your doctor if they occur. If jaundice develops, consult your doctor without delay.
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. Others increase the risk of low blood sugar. These include warfarin, aspirin, sulphonamides and other antibacterials, antifungals, NSAIDs, and ACE inhibitors.
Beta blockers may mask symptoms of hypoglycaemia, especially non-cardioselective beta blockers such as propranolol.
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
· You have long-term liver or kidney problems.
· You are allergic to sulphonylurea drugs.
· You have thyroid problems.
· You have porphyria.
· You have ever had problems with your adrenal glands.
· You are taking other medicines.
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 and may cause low blood sugar in the baby.
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 increasing the risk of hypoglycaemia.
Surgery and general anaesthetics Notify your doctor or dentist that you have diabetes before undergoing any surgery.
Sunlight and sunbeds Avoid exposure to sunlight and tanning beds. The drug may make your skin more sensitive.
PROLONGED USE
No problems expected.
Monitoring Regular testing of blood sugar control is required. Periodic assessment of the eyes, heart, and kidneys may also be advised.