Medicine Information

Glicasil

Name: Glicasil
Brand: Glicasil
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet80 mgOral Hypoglycaemic AgentsATC: A10BB09

Generic Name

Gliclazide 80 mg Tablet

Manufacturer

Acme Pharmaceuticals

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
glicasil 80 mg tablet	৳ 5.02	৳ 50.20

Description

Overview of the medicine

Gliclazide is an oral hypoglycaemic agent (sulfonylurea) used to treat Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. It helps lower blood glucose by stimulating insulin release from pancreatic beta cells.

Uses & Indications

Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

When diet and exercise alone are insufficient to control blood glucose

Dosage

Adults

Initial dose 40-80 mg daily, gradually increased up to 320 mg daily in divided doses, preferably with meals.

Elderly

Lower initial dose (e.g., 40 mg daily) and careful titration due to increased risk of hypoglycaemia. Maximum 160-240 mg daily.

Renal_impairment

Mild to moderate impairment: No initial dose adjustment, but careful monitoring. Severe impairment: Contraindicated.

How to Take

Should be taken orally with meals, preferably breakfast. Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush or chew.

Mechanism of Action

Gliclazide stimulates insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells by closing ATP-sensitive potassium channels, leading to depolarization and calcium influx, which triggers insulin exocytosis.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Within 2 hours.

Excretion

Primarily excreted in urine as metabolites, a small amount in feces.

Half life

Approximately 10-12 hours.

Absorption

Rapidly absorbed from the GI tract. Peak plasma concentrations reached within 4-6 hours.

Metabolism

Extensively metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetic ketoacidosis
Severe renal or hepatic impairment
Hypersensitivity to gliclazide or other sulfonylureas
Pregnancy and lactation

Drug Interactions

Warfarin

Potentiates the anticoagulant effect.

Beta-blockers

May mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia (e.g., tremors, palpitations).

Fluconazole, Miconazole

May increase the hypoglycaemic effect due to enzyme inhibition.

NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen)

May enhance the hypoglycaemic effect of Gliclazide.

Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisolone)

May reduce the hypoglycaemic effect of Gliclazide.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from moisture and direct light. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Overdose can lead to severe hypoglycemia, which may be prolonged. Management includes immediate administration of glucose (oral for conscious patients, IV for unconscious), close monitoring of blood glucose, and supportive care.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Not recommended during pregnancy as it may cause fetal hypoglycemia. Insulin is the preferred treatment for diabetes in pregnancy. Avoid during lactation as gliclazide may pass into breast milk and affect the infant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 tablets (1x10 strip)30 tablets (3x10 strips)

Shelf Life

36 months from the date of manufacture.

Availability

Pharmacies, Hospitals

Approval Status

Approved (DGDA)

Patent Status

Generic

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Gliclazide has been extensively studied in clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in managing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, particularly its role in microvascular complication reduction.

Lab Monitoring

Regular monitoring of fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels.
HbA1c levels every 3-6 months.
Periodic assessment of renal and hepatic function.

Doctor Notes

Emphasize patient education on hypoglycemia recognition and management.
Advise patients on lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise.
Regularly monitor renal function in elderly and vulnerable patients.
Consider alternative therapies if adequate glycemic control is not achieved or if side effects are intolerable.

Patient Guidelines

Adhere strictly to dietary recommendations and exercise regimen.
Be aware of the symptoms of hypoglycemia and carry a source of fast-acting sugar (e.g., glucose tablets, fruit juice).
Do not skip meals and take Glicasil with food.
Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.

Missed Dose Advice

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose to compensate.

Driving Precautions

Gliclazide can cause hypoglycemia, which may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Patients should be aware of hypoglycemia symptoms and take precautions before driving or engaging in hazardous activities.

Lifestyle Advice

Maintain a healthy and balanced diet, limit intake of sugary foods and refined carbohydrates.
Engage in regular physical activity suitable for your health condition.
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.