GENERIC NAME: glyburide

BRAND NAMES: Micronase, Diabeta, Glynase

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Glyburide is an oral glucose lowering-drug in a class of diabetes medicines called sulfonylureas. Glyburide lowers the sugar level by stimulating insulin secretion in the pancreas. Insulin is a hormone which lowers the blood sugar level.

Approximately 90% of patients with diabetes have type 2 or non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Type 2 diabetes usually occurs in adulthood, and is associated with obesity and a strong family history of the disease. Sugar (glucose) intolerance is related to impaired insulin secretion by the pancreas and resistance to insulin at the cell level.

PRESCRIPTION: Yes

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

PREPARATIONS: Tablets; 1.25mg, 1.5mg, 2.5mg, 3mg, 5mg.

STORAGE: Glyburide should be stored at room temperature in a tight container.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Glyburide is used in type 2 diabetes to help lower and control blood sugars in those not controlled by diet alone. Studies have shown that strict sugar control in diabetics decreases the risks of eye, kidney, and nerve damage. Oral sulfonylureas are used in type 2 diabetics after a trial on a strict diabetic diet and usually before insulin is tried.

DOSING: Glyburide may be taken with or without food. Since glyburide is metabolized by the liver and excreted by the kidneys, dosages may need to be lowered in patients with liver or kidney dysfunction.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: All sulfonylureas can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Therefore, glyburide must be used cautiously in patients with kidney or liver problems, and those with poor food intake, using alcohol, or participating in heavy exercise, as well as in patients taking other glucose-lowering drugs. Drug interactions causing hypoglycemia can occur with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, sulfa drugs, coumadin, miconazole, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, and beta-blocking drugs. High glucose reactions (hyperglycemia) can occur with thiazide diuretics, corticosteroids, thyroid medicines, estrogens, niacin, dilantin, and calcium channel blocking drugs.

PREGNANCY: Glyburide is not recommended during pregnancy. Use of glyburide during the 2nd and 3rd term of pregnancy does not appear to affect the fetus, but use of glyburide during pregnancy should be discussed with a physician

NURSING MOTHERS: Glyburide should not be used by breast-feeding mothers.

SIDE EFFECTS: Minor side effects include nausea, heartburn, and bloating. Skin rashes can occur and cause itching, hives, or a diffuse measles-like rash. Rare but serious side effects include hepatitis, jaundice, and a low sodium concentration.

Last Editorial Review: 12/31/1997

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