Gliclazide is an oral hypoglycemic (anti-diabetic drug) and is classified
as a sulfonylurea. It is marketed as Diamicron MR®. DIAMICRON MR is also
distributed as: Diabeton MR, Diamicron 30mg, Diamicron LM 30mg, Diamicron MR
30 mg, Diamicron Uno 30mg, Dianormax MR, Diaprel MR and Uni Diamicron.
Form and Composition:
Each tablet contains 80 mg of gliclazide.
Not marketed in the United States.
Indication:
Type 2 diabetes.
Dosage:
40 to 240 mg depending on response, once or twice daily before food, no more
that 160 mg at a time.
Properties:
Hypoglycemic sulfonylurea, restoring first peak of insulin secretion, increasing
insulin sensitivity. Glycemia-independent hemovascular effects, antioxidant
effect. No active circulating metabolites.
Contraindications:
type 1 diabetes, hypersensitivity to sulfonylureas, severe renal or hepatic
failure, pregnancy and lactation, miconazole coprescription.
Interactions:
Hyperglycemic action may be caused by danazol, chlorpromazine, glucocorticoids,
progestogens, ß-2 agonists. Its hypoglycemic action may be potentiated
by phenylbutazone, alcohol, fluconazole, ß-blockers, possibly ACE inhibitors.
Adverse effects:
Hypoglycemia, gastrointestinal disturbance (reported), skin reactions (rare),
hematological disorders (rare), hepatic enzyme rises (exceptional).
Overdosage:
Possible severe hypoglycemia requiring urgent IV glucose and monitoring.