Glisulin
Generic Name
Glimepiride
Manufacturer
MediCorp Pharma
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| glisulin 1 mg tablet | ৳ 4.00 | ৳ 40.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Glisulin 1 mg Tablet contains Glimepiride, an oral antidiabetic drug used to lower blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus when diet and exercise alone are not sufficient. It belongs to the sulfonylurea class of medicines, which work by stimulating insulin release from the pancreatic beta cells.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose is 1-2 mg once daily, taken with breakfast or the first main meal. The dose may be titrated gradually in increments of 1-2 mg at 1-2 week intervals, up to a maximum of 8 mg daily.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is generally required, but careful monitoring of blood glucose is recommended due to increased risk of hypoglycemia.
Renal_impairment
Initial dose should be 1 mg once daily, and careful titration is required. Doses exceeding 1 mg may increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Avoid in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Glisulin tablet should be taken orally once daily with breakfast or the first main meal. It should be swallowed whole with water; do not crush or chew.
Mechanism of Action
Glimepiride primarily acts by stimulating the release of insulin from the beta cells of the pancreatic islets. This effect is dependent on functioning beta cells in the pancreatic islets. It binds to the sulfonylurea receptor on the pancreatic beta-cell membrane, leading to closure of ATP-sensitive potassium channels, which results in depolarization and calcium influx, ultimately triggering insulin secretion. It may also have some extrapancreatic effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 2-3 hours.
Excretion
Approximately 60% is excreted in the urine and 40% in the feces as metabolites.
Half life
Approximately 5-9 hours, but the duration of action can be up to 24 hours.
Absorption
Rapid and complete absorption from the GI tract after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations (Cmax) are achieved within 2-3 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) to two main inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to glimepiride or other sulfonylureas or sulfonamides.
- Type 1 diabetes mellitus.
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), with or without coma.
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment.
- Pregnancy and lactation.
Drug Interactions
Thiazides, Corticosteroids, Oral Contraceptives
May lead to a decrease in the glucose-lowering effect.
Beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, NSAIDs, Salicylates
May enhance the glucose-lowering effect.
Miconazole, Fluconazole, Chloramphenicol, Warfarin
May potentiate the hypoglycemic effect of glimepiride.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not store above 30°C. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose may lead to severe hypoglycemia. Management includes oral administration of glucose or sugar for mild symptoms, and intravenous glucose (dextrose) solution for severe hypoglycemia. Hospitalization and continuous monitoring for at least 24-48 hours may be necessary.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Not recommended during pregnancy and lactation. Insulin is generally preferred for glycemic control during pregnancy. It is unknown if glimepiride is excreted in human milk.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to glimepiride or other sulfonylureas or sulfonamides.
- Type 1 diabetes mellitus.
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), with or without coma.
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment.
- Pregnancy and lactation.
Drug Interactions
Thiazides, Corticosteroids, Oral Contraceptives
May lead to a decrease in the glucose-lowering effect.
Beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, NSAIDs, Salicylates
May enhance the glucose-lowering effect.
Miconazole, Fluconazole, Chloramphenicol, Warfarin
May potentiate the hypoglycemic effect of glimepiride.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not store above 30°C. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose may lead to severe hypoglycemia. Management includes oral administration of glucose or sugar for mild symptoms, and intravenous glucose (dextrose) solution for severe hypoglycemia. Hospitalization and continuous monitoring for at least 24-48 hours may be necessary.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Not recommended during pregnancy and lactation. Insulin is generally preferred for glycemic control during pregnancy. It is unknown if glimepiride is excreted in human milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated Glimepiride's efficacy in reducing HbA1c and fasting plasma glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. Studies have also evaluated its use as monotherapy and in combination with other antidiabetic agents.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood glucose levels (fasting and postprandial)
- HbA1c (Glycated hemoglobin) every 3-6 months
- Renal function tests (e.g., serum creatinine, eGFR) regularly
- Liver function tests periodically
Doctor Notes
- Educate patients thoroughly about hypoglycemia symptoms and management.
- Emphasize the importance of consistent meal timing and carbohydrate intake.
- Regular monitoring of blood glucose and HbA1c is crucial for effective management.
- Adjust dose cautiously in elderly patients or those with renal impairment.
Patient Guidelines
- Follow prescribed dosage and administration instructions carefully.
- Adhere to diet and exercise recommendations provided by your doctor or dietitian.
- Monitor blood glucose levels regularly as advised.
- Carry a source of fast-acting sugar (e.g., glucose tablets, fruit juice) to treat hypoglycemia.
- 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. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Patients should be aware of the symptoms of hypoglycemia (e.g., dizziness, blurred vision, impaired concentration) which can affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. Take precautions to avoid hypoglycemia, especially when driving.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a balanced diet appropriate for diabetes.
- Engage in regular physical activity as recommended.
- Monitor weight and aim for a healthy body weight.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
- Quit smoking to improve overall health and diabetes management.
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