glyclopyramide

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Action: 

Hypoglycemic Agent: glyclopyramide belongs to the class of drugs known as sulfonylureas. Its primary action is to stimulate insulin release from the beta cells in the pancreas. This leads to elevated insulin concentrations in the circulatory system, facilitating the reduction of blood glucose levels by stimulating glucose uptake and utilization by cells. 

Spectrum: 

Type 2 Diabetes: glyclopyramide is mainly used to treat type 2 diabetes. It effectively controls blood sugar levels in individuals with this form of diabetes, mainly when dietary and lifestyle measures are insufficient to achieve adequate glycemic control. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined  

Dizziness 

Visual disturbances 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning:  

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution:  

Hypersensitivity: Individuals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to glyclopyramide or other sulfonylurea drugs should not use this medication. 

Type 1 Diabetes: glyclopyramide is not intended for treating type 1 diabetes, characterized by a lack of insulin production. It is only effective in individuals with type 2 diabetes. 

Diabetic Ketoacidosis: glyclopyramide is contraindicated in treating diabetic ketoacidosis, a critical and potentially life-threatening diabetic complication necessitating specialized medical intervention. 

Severe Liver Disease: Individuals suffering from advanced liver disease or compromised liver function might not be appropriate candidates for the use of glyclopyramide, as the liver metabolizes the drug, which could lead to increased levels in the bloodstream. 

Severe Kidney Disease: Individuals with severe kidney disease, especially those requiring dialysis, may need dosage adjustments or an alternative treatment, as glyclopyramide and its metabolites are excreted through the kidneys. 

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of glyclopyramide during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-established, and it should be used with caution under the guidance of a healthcare professional. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: Excreted into human milk is unknown 

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester. 

Category B: There were a lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal experiments.   

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.   

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology:  

glyclopyramide belongs to the sulfonylurea class of drugs. 

Pharmacodynamics:  

glyclopyramide acts primarily by stimulating insulin release from the pancreatic beta cells. This mechanism operates through the attachment to distinct receptors on beta cells, thereby leading to an enhanced release of insulin. Consequently, insulin plays a pivotal role in reducing blood glucose levels by facilitating the absorption and utilization of glucose in different tissues across the body. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

glyclopyramide is administered orally in the form of tablets or capsules. After oral administration, it is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.  

Distribution 

Once absorbed, glyclopyramide is distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. It can bind to plasma proteins, particularly albumin. The drug is distributed to various tissues, including the liver, where it can have effects on glucose metabolism. 

Metabolism 

glyclopyramide undergoes hepatic metabolism. The drug undergoes a crucial metabolic process within the liver.  

Excretion and Elimination 

The primary route of excretion for glyclopyramide and its metabolites is through the urine. The kidneys filter the drug and its by-products from the bloodstream into the urine for elimination. The elimination half-life of glyclopyramide can vary but is typically in the range of several hours to around a day, depending on factors such as renal function and dosage. 

Adminstartion

Administration:  

glyclopyramide is available in tablet form. Take the tablet whole with a glass of water. Unless your medical professional recommends it. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: glyclopyramide 

Why do we use glyclopyramide?  

glyclopyramide is prescribed to individuals with type 2 diabetes to help lower blood sugar levels. It does so by increasing the secretion of insulin from the pancreas and improving the utilization of insulin by the body’s cells.  

It helps in achieving better control of blood glucose levels in people with diabetes. By promoting insulin release, it helps to regulate and stabilize blood sugar levels, preventing hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).  

glyclopyramide is typically used in combination with a controlled diet and regular exercise to manage type 2 diabetes. Lifestyle changes, along with the medication, can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels.