Description
Generic
Gliclazide
Indications
Gliclazide is used for the treatment of individuals with maturity-onset diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) who require an oral hypoglycemic agent.
Pharmacology
Gliclazide is a sulfonylurea of the second generation with hypoglycemic and possibly hematological effects. It increases insulin release from pancreatic -cells by promoting Ca+2 transport across-cell membranes and reduces hepatic glucose production.
Dosage & Administration
The normal starting dose for a film-coated tablet is 40 to 80 mg daily. When necessary, the dosage can be raised to 320 mg daily in split doses. The medication should be taken before a meal. Gliclazide is not used in children since it is contraindicated in juvenile-onset diabetes.
The normal daily dosage for Gliclazide 30 mg is 1 to 4 tablets per day as a single dose, and for Gliclazide 60 mg is 1 to 2 tablets per day as a single dose. It is suggested that the medication be taken in the morning. It is advisable to take this medication before breakfast in order to avoid or reduce the beginning of stomach problems.
Interaction
Aspirin, NSAIDs, Phenylbutazone, Clofibrate, Sulfonamide, Cimetidine, Imidazole antifungal medications, and Monoamine Oxidase inhibitors may enhance Gliclazide’s hypoglycemic effects. Rifampin, Barbiturates, Phenytoin, Thiazide diuretics, Diazoxide, Glucocorticoids, Estrogens, Sympathomimetic medications, and Alcohol can all diminish Gliclazide’s hypoglycemic impact.
Contraindications
- Gliclazide should not be used in the following conditions:
- Juvenile-onset (type 1) diabetes
- Diabetes linked with ketosis
- Diabetic patients who are undergoing surgery, have suffered a major accident, or are infected
- Patients who are hypersensitive to the sulfonylurea class of medications
- Pregnant ladies and mothers who are breast-feeding
- Insufficiency of the liver
Side Effects
Concurrent diseases such as hepatic and renal illness, starvation, and alcohol abuse may cause hypoglycemia. Headache, gastrointestinal disturbances, nausea, dizziness, and skin responses such as rash, pruritus, and erythema may occur.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Gliclazide is not recommended for pregnant women. It should not be used by a mother who is breastfeeding.
Precautions & Warnings
In individuals with hepatic impairment, gliclazide should be taken with caution. Gliclazide should not be taken if there is a clear case of hepatic illness. Because gliclazide is thoroughly metabolized, it can be administered safely in individuals with renal failure. Gliclazide is less likely to cause a sudden hypoglycemic episode than other sulfonylurea medications.
Therapeutic Class
Sulfonylureas
Storage Conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, below 30°C and away from light.
Pharmaceutical Name
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.