Indications

Patients with maturity-onset diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) who require an oral hypoglycaemic medication should use gliclazide.

Pharmacology

Gliclazide is a sulfonylurea of the second generation with hypoglycemic and possibly hematological effects. It reduces hepatic glucose production while stimulating insulin release from pancreatic -cells by promoting Ca+2 transport across the -cell membranes.

Dosage & Administration

The normal starting dose is 40 to 80 mg per day as a film-coated tablet. When needed, the dosage can be raised to 320 mg daily in split doses. The medication should be taken before a meal. Because Gliclazide is contraindicated in juvenile-onset diabetes, it is not used in children.

Gliclazide 30 mg is usually taken as 1 to 4 tablets per day, whereas Gliclazide 60 mg is used as 1 to 2 tablets per day as a single dose. It is suggested that the medication be taken first thing in the morning. It is best to take this medication before breakfast in order to avoid or reduce the risk of stomach problems.

Interaction

Aspirin, NSAIDs, Phenylbutazone, Clofibrate, Sulfonamide, Cimetidine, Imidazole antifungal medications, and Monoamine Oxidase inhibitors may enhance Gliclazide’s hypoglycaemic effects. Rifampin, Barbiturates, Phenytoin, Thiazide diuretics, Diazoxide, Glucocorticoids, Estrogens, Sympathomimetic medications, and Alcohol may decrease the hypoglycaemic impact of Gliclazide.

Contraindications

Gliclazide should not be used in the following situations:

• Juvenile-onset (type-1) diabetes
• Diabetes associated with Ketosis
• Diabetic patients undergoing surgery, after severe injury or during infection
• Patients having hypersensitivity to the sulfonylurea group of drugs
• Pregnant women and breast-feeding mother
• Hepatic insufficiency

Side Effects

Hypoglycemia can occur in the presence of other diseases such as hepatic and renal dysfunction, starvation, and alcohol abuse. Headaches, gastrointestinal disturbances, nausea, dizziness, and skin responses such as rash, pruritus, and erythema are all possible side effects.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnant women should avoid using gliclazide. It should not be used by a woman who is breastfeeding.

Precautions & Warnings

In individuals with hepatic impairment, gliclazide should be taken with caution. Gliclazide should not be taken if there is clear evidence of liver illness. Because gliclazide is thoroughly metabolized, it can be administered safely in individuals with renal failure. Gliclazide has a lower risk of hypoglycemia than other sulfonylurea medications.

Therapeutic Class

Sulfonylureas

Storage Conditions

Store below 30°C and away from light in a cool, dry area.

Generic

Gliclazide

Pharmaceutical Name

Popular Pharmaceuticals Ltd.