Glibenclamide

Information About Glibenclamide

Uses of Glibenclamide

Glibenclamide is commonly used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus

How Glibenclamide Works

Glibenclamide is a sulfonylurea. It works by increasing the amount of insulin the pancreas makes, therefore creating a low blood glucose environment in the body. This helps insulin work more efficiently in the peripheral organs and reduce glucose production by the liver.

Side Effects of Glibenclamide

Weight Gain, Nausea, Heartburn, Diarrhea, Rashes, Skin itch, Joint pain, Muscle pain, Low blood glucose.

Authorship

Written By

Dr Mohd Ramzdhan Bin Mohd Masdar

MD (Crimea State Medical University)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Glibenclamide Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

Glibenclamide is known to have an effect similar to a drug called disulfiram, which is used to curb chronic alcoholism. It renders the patient being acutely sensitive to alcohol and feeling unwell.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Glibenclamide may be unsafe to use during pregnancy as animal studies have shown adverse effects on the foetus and human studies also showed some adverse effect. Therefore, please consult your doctor to discuss the benefits over the risks of taking sulfonylurea due to their chance of having too low blood sugar.

Lactation Not Advisable

Glibenclamide being excreted into the breast milk has not been made certain but the risk of having a baby with too low blood sugar cannot be excluded. Therefore, it isn't safe for breastfeeding.

Driving Generally Safe

Glibenclamide usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.

Kidney Use With Care

Glibenclamide requires dose adjustment for patients with mild to moderate kidney disease as it is partially excreted in the urine. Please consult your doctor. Patients with severe kidney disease are contraindicated from taking Glibenclamide.

Liver Use With Care

Glibenclamide may require dose adjustments for patients with liver disease so please consult your doctor before starting Glibenclamide. However, patients with severe liver disease are contraindicated from taking Glibenclamide.