by Dr. Manura Nanayakkara

Created on: September 14, 2010

Glyburide is a sulfonylurea anti-diabetic agent. It is also called Glibenclamide.  Common brand names are Diabeta, Glynase and Micronase. It is only effective in Type 2 Diabetes.

Diabetes is caused by destruction of beta cells in the pancreas as well as peripheral insulin resistance. This medication acts by stimulating secretion of insulin from the existing beta cells of the pancreas.  But glyburide does not reduce peripheral insulin resistance.

 Since diabetes is a progressive disease, destruction of beta cells continues and the number of healthy beta cells goes down. So doctors have to increase the dose over time. Ultimately, the number of healthy beta cells will become so low, that doctors need to discontinue the medication and start insulin injections.

The doctor should know your complete medical history including over the counter drugs and herbal medications, before prescribing glyburide. He should know whether you have liver problems, G6PD deficiency and a condition called acute porphyria. If you have these problems doctor will not prescribe this medication for you. The doctor will not prescribe this medication to you if you are pregnant or breast feeding. If you have renal impairment the doctor will analyze risks and benefits before starting on glyburide.

This medication should be taken as advised by the doctor. Also this should be taken as whole with a full glass of water to minimize side effects. Over dose can result in serious reduction of blood glucose and you should seek immediate medical advice. You need to check your blood glucose regularly during therapy to avoid changes in blood glucose levels in your blood.

You must adhere to a proper diabetic diet, even with the medication. Taking increased amount of sweets can increase your blood glucose levels as well as your HBA1C value. When your doctor sees such a report, he may increase the anti-diabetic drug dose. This can result in erratic blood glucose levels.

What are the side effects?

Reduction of blood glucose level is the main side effect of this medication. Knowing the effects of reduced blood glucose is important to identify the problem early. They are sweating, feeling hungry, and feeling that you are going to die and faintish ness. Others will notice sudden changed behavior, impaired judgment, and confusion in you. If you get these symptoms you should get emergency medical help immediately.

Doctors usually start on 2.5mg – 5mg daily shortly before breakfast or lunch. The doctor will change the dose according to your individual response.

 Sources

British National Formulary

 AHFS Drug information

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