Glirid
Generic Name
Glimepiride
Manufacturer
Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| glirid 1 mg tablet | ৳ 6.00 | ৳ 60.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Glimepiride is an oral blood-glucose-lowering drug of the sulfonylurea class used in the management of non-insulin-dependent (Type 2) diabetes mellitus as an adjunct to diet and exercise.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose: 1 mg once daily with breakfast or the first main meal. Dosage can be titrated in 1 mg increments at 1-2 week intervals based on blood glucose response, up to a maximum of 8 mg once daily.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment required, but initiate with caution at 1 mg once daily due to increased sensitivity and risk of hypoglycemia.
Renal_impairment
Initial dose 1 mg once daily. For patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl < 22 mL/min), cautious titration and monitoring are necessary. Dosage should not exceed 1 mg/day if CrCl < 22 mL/min.
How to Take
Take orally, once daily with breakfast or the first main meal. Tablets should be swallowed whole with sufficient liquid.
Mechanism of Action
Glimepiride primarily lowers blood glucose by stimulating the release of insulin from pancreatic beta cells. It also increases the sensitivity of peripheral tissues to insulin.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action within 2-3 hours.
Excretion
Approximately 60% renally and 40% via feces as metabolites.
Half life
Approximately 5-9 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations are reached in 2-3 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver by CYP2C9 to two main metabolites, which are weakly active.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Type 1 diabetes mellitus
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment
- Hypersensitivity to glimepiride or other sulfonylureas or sulfonamides
- Pregnancy and lactation
Drug Interactions
Corticosteroids, Diuretics (Thiazide), Thyroid hormones, Oral contraceptives, Sympathomimetics
May reduce the hypoglycemic effect of glimepiride.
NSAIDs, Salicylates, Sulfonamides, Chloramphenicol, Coumarin derivatives, Beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, Alcohol
May potentiate the hypoglycemic effect of glimepiride.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose can lead to severe hypoglycemia. Management includes immediate glucose administration (oral for conscious patients, intravenous for unconscious patients) and careful monitoring.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Glimepiride is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation. Insulin should be used instead.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Type 1 diabetes mellitus
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment
- Hypersensitivity to glimepiride or other sulfonylureas or sulfonamides
- Pregnancy and lactation
Drug Interactions
Corticosteroids, Diuretics (Thiazide), Thyroid hormones, Oral contraceptives, Sympathomimetics
May reduce the hypoglycemic effect of glimepiride.
NSAIDs, Salicylates, Sulfonamides, Chloramphenicol, Coumarin derivatives, Beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, Alcohol
May potentiate the hypoglycemic effect of glimepiride.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose can lead to severe hypoglycemia. Management includes immediate glucose administration (oral for conscious patients, intravenous for unconscious patients) and careful monitoring.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Glimepiride is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation. Insulin should be used instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established glimepiride's efficacy and safety in Type 2 diabetes management. Ongoing research explores its long-term cardiovascular outcomes and comparative effectiveness.
Lab Monitoring
- Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels
- HbA1c levels
- Renal function (especially in patients with renal impairment)
- Liver function tests periodically
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize patient education on hypoglycemia symptoms and management.
- Careful dosage titration is crucial, especially in elderly or renally impaired patients.
- Advise patients on lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise) as a cornerstone of diabetes management.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Understand the symptoms of hypoglycemia and how to manage them.
- Carry a source of sugar (e.g., glucose tablets, fruit juice) with you at all times.
- Monitor your blood glucose regularly as advised.
- Do not skip meals.
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 take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Caution is advised while driving or operating machinery, especially at the beginning of treatment, when switching medication, or if doses are missed due to the risk of hypoglycemia impacting concentration and reaction time.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise regimen.
- Achieve and maintain a healthy body weight.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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