Glims
Generic Name
Glimepiride
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| glims 3 mg tablet | ৳ 7.74 | ৳ 116.10 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Glims 3 mg tablet contains Glimepiride, an oral anti-diabetic drug used to lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It belongs to the sulfonylurea class, stimulating insulin release from the pancreatic beta cells.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose: 1-2 mg once daily, taken with the first main meal. Max dose: 8 mg once daily. Adjust dose based on blood glucose response.
Elderly
Start with a lower dose (e.g., 1 mg once daily) and titrate carefully, as elderly patients may be more sensitive to the hypoglycemic effects.
Renal_impairment
Initial dose 1 mg once daily. Max dose 4 mg once daily. Careful monitoring of blood glucose and renal function is required.
How to Take
Take orally once daily with the first main meal of the day. Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush, chew, or divide.
Mechanism of Action
Glimepiride primarily acts by stimulating insulin release from the pancreatic beta cells. It binds to the sulfonylurea receptor (SUR1) on the beta-cell membrane, leading to closure of ATP-sensitive potassium channels, membrane depolarization, and opening of voltage-dependent calcium channels. The resulting increase in intracellular calcium triggers insulin exocytosis. It also has extrapancreatic effects, enhancing peripheral insulin sensitivity and reducing hepatic glucose production.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 2-3 hours
Excretion
Approximately 60% of a dose is excreted in the urine and 40% in the feces (as metabolites).
Half life
5-9 hours (terminal half-life)
Absorption
Rapid and complete absorption from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved in 2-3 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) to two main metabolites: a cyclohexylhydroxy methyl derivative and a carboxyl derivative.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to glimepiride or other sulfonylureas or sulfonamides
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (with or without coma)
- Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment (without dose adjustment and careful monitoring)
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May potentiate or diminish the anticoagulant effect.
NSAIDs, salicylates, sulfonamides, chloramphenicol, coumarins, probenecid, MAO inhibitors, beta-blockers, alcohol
May potentiate the hypoglycemic effect of glimepiride.
Corticosteroids, diuretics, thyroid hormones, estrogens, oral contraceptives, phenothiazines, nicotinic acid, sympathomimetics
May decrease the hypoglycemic effect, leading to hyperglycemia.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms: Hypoglycemia (severe), including sweating, tremor, hunger, confusion, coma, seizures. Management: Administer glucose (oral for mild, IV dextrose for severe). Monitor blood glucose for at least 24-48 hours and provide supportive care.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Category C for pregnancy. Not recommended during pregnancy as insulin is preferred for glycemic control. Excreted in breast milk; avoid during breastfeeding or use an alternative medication.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to glimepiride or other sulfonylureas or sulfonamides
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (with or without coma)
- Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment (without dose adjustment and careful monitoring)
Drug Interactions
Warfarin
May potentiate or diminish the anticoagulant effect.
NSAIDs, salicylates, sulfonamides, chloramphenicol, coumarins, probenecid, MAO inhibitors, beta-blockers, alcohol
May potentiate the hypoglycemic effect of glimepiride.
Corticosteroids, diuretics, thyroid hormones, estrogens, oral contraceptives, phenothiazines, nicotinic acid, sympathomimetics
May decrease the hypoglycemic effect, leading to hyperglycemia.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms: Hypoglycemia (severe), including sweating, tremor, hunger, confusion, coma, seizures. Management: Administer glucose (oral for mild, IV dextrose for severe). Monitor blood glucose for at least 24-48 hours and provide supportive care.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Category C for pregnancy. Not recommended during pregnancy as insulin is preferred for glycemic control. Excreted in breast milk; avoid during breastfeeding or use an alternative medication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by FDA and DGDA
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have demonstrated glimepiride's efficacy in lowering HbA1c and improving glycemic control in type 2 diabetic patients, both as monotherapy and in combination with other anti-diabetic agents.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood glucose levels (fasting and postprandial)
- HbA1c (every 3-6 months)
- Renal function tests (e.g., serum creatinine, eGFR)
- Liver function tests (periodically)
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) (periodically)
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on hypoglycemia symptoms and management.
- Monitor renal function regularly in elderly and renally impaired patients.
- Consider combination therapy if monotherapy fails to achieve glycemic targets.
- Educate patients on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise) as a cornerstone of diabetes management.
Patient Guidelines
- Strictly follow diet and exercise recommendations.
- Monitor blood glucose regularly as advised by your doctor.
- Be aware of symptoms of hypoglycemia and how to treat them (e.g., carry glucose tablets or candy).
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember with a meal. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
May cause hypoglycemia, which can impair concentration and reaction time. Patients should be advised to take precautions while driving or operating machinery, especially when initiating treatment or changing dosage.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet appropriate for diabetes.
- Engage in regular physical activity.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it can increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
- Quit smoking.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
Other Medicines in Glims Brand
Other medicines available under the same brand name
