Sucorid
Generic Name
Glimepiride
Manufacturer
ACI Limited
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| sucorid 2 mg tablet | ৳ 5.00 | ৳ 50.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Sucorid 2 mg Tablet contains Glimepiride, an oral antidiabetic drug in the sulfonylurea class. It is used to lower blood glucose levels in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus, typically as an adjunct to diet and exercise.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose is 1-2 mg once daily with breakfast or the first main meal. The dose can be titrated gradually, usually in increments of 1-2 mg, at 1-2 week intervals, up to a maximum of 8 mg once daily.
Elderly
Initiate with 1 mg once daily and titrate carefully, considering increased sensitivity to hypoglycemic agents.
Renal_impairment
Initial dose 1 mg once daily. Close monitoring of blood glucose is required, and careful titration may be needed. Avoid in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Take orally, once daily with breakfast or the first main meal. Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew.
Mechanism of Action
Glimepiride lowers blood glucose by stimulating the release of insulin from pancreatic beta cells. It binds to the sulfonylurea receptor on beta cells, leading to the closure of ATP-sensitive potassium channels, membrane depolarization, and opening of calcium channels, which results in calcium influx and insulin secretion.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Hypoglycemic effect usually begins within 1 hour after administration.
Excretion
Approximately 60% of the dose is excreted in the urine and 40% in the feces as metabolites.
Half life
The elimination half-life is approximately 5-9 hours.
Absorption
Rapid and complete absorption from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved in approximately 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 to sulfonamides.
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (with or without coma).
- Type 1 diabetes mellitus.
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment.
- Pregnancy and lactation.
Drug Interactions
Weakening of hypoglycemic effect
Corticosteroids, diuretics (thiazides), thyroid hormones, sympathomimetics, oral contraceptives, phenothiazines, nicotinic acid.
Potentiation of hypoglycemic effect
NSAIDs, salicylates, sulfonamides, chloramphenicol, coumarins, fluoxetine, MAO inhibitors, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, alcohol.
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 administration of glucose (oral for conscious patients, intravenous for unconscious), close monitoring of blood glucose for 24-48 hours, and hospitalization if necessary.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential for fetal/neonatal hypoglycemia. Not recommended during lactation as it may be excreted in breast milk and cause hypoglycemia in the infant.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Glimepiride or other sulfonylureas, or to sulfonamides.
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (with or without coma).
- Type 1 diabetes mellitus.
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment.
- Pregnancy and lactation.
Drug Interactions
Weakening of hypoglycemic effect
Corticosteroids, diuretics (thiazides), thyroid hormones, sympathomimetics, oral contraceptives, phenothiazines, nicotinic acid.
Potentiation of hypoglycemic effect
NSAIDs, salicylates, sulfonamides, chloramphenicol, coumarins, fluoxetine, MAO inhibitors, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, alcohol.
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 administration of glucose (oral for conscious patients, intravenous for unconscious), close monitoring of blood glucose for 24-48 hours, and hospitalization if necessary.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential for fetal/neonatal hypoglycemia. Not recommended during lactation as it may be excreted in breast milk and cause hypoglycemia in the infant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date, check packaging for specific expiry.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved (DGDA, FDA and others)
Patent Status
Off-patent (Generic available)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of Glimepiride in managing type 2 diabetes, both as monotherapy and in combination with other antidiabetic agents.
Lab Monitoring
- Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is essential.
- HbA1c should be measured every 3-6 months to assess long-term glycemic control.
- Periodically monitor renal and hepatic function, and complete blood count (CBC).
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize patient education regarding hypoglycemia recognition and management.
- Monitor renal function regularly, especially in elderly patients and those with pre-existing renal impairment.
- Consider the risk of weight gain and cardiovascular effects in treatment planning.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine consistently at the same time each day, preferably with breakfast.
- Do not skip meals, and maintain a regular eating pattern.
- Recognize the symptoms of hypoglycemia (e.g., sweating, trembling, confusion) and carry a source of sugar (e.g., glucose tablets, fruit juice).
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, 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
Glimepiride can cause hypoglycemia, which may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Exercise caution and be aware of your blood sugar levels before driving or performing tasks requiring alertness.
Lifestyle Advice
- Adhere to a balanced diet recommended for diabetes.
- Engage in regular physical activity as advised by your doctor.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Regularly monitor your blood glucose levels at home.
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.