Generic: glyburide

Brand names: MICRONASE, DIABETA, GLYNASE DRUG

Class: 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.

How Supplied: Tablets; 1.25mg, 1.5mg, 2.5mg, 3mg, 5mg.

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

Precautions: 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. Glyburide should not be used in pregnancy or 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.