Glimepiride
Drug class: Sulfonylureas
Glimepiride (AMARYL)（中文：格列美脲）
Common Strengths of Glimepiride Tablet
1 mg, 2 mg, 3 mg, 4 mg tablets.
Drug Trade Names of Glimepiride Tablet
Amaryl
Usage
Treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Mechanism of Action
Stimulates insulin release from pancreatic beta cells.
Route of Administration
Oral
Dosages
- Initially 1 - 2 mg once daily, may increase to 4 - 8 mg once daily maximum
- Hypertension/Heart failure: No specific dosage adjustments
- Diabetic kidney disease: Start with 1 mg daily and titrate carefully
Side Effects
| Frequency | Adverse reactions |
|---|---|
| Common | Hypoglycemia |
| Uncommon | Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache |
| Allergic skin reactions, blood dyscrasias |
The main symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) include:
- Feel hungry
- Weakness and dizziness
- Feeling anxious or irritable
- Sweating and chills
- Tremble
- Tingling of lips
- Palpitations
- Vision changes, such as blurred vision
- Confused
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption
- Completely absorbed. The drug reaches maximum plasma concentration in 2 to 3 hours after taking a dose.
- Metabolism
- Hepatic via CYP2C9
- Elimination
- 60% in urine, 40% in feces;
- Half-life
- 5 to 8 hours
Glimepiride produces a peak of insulin release 30 minutes after a meal when taken 30 minutes before breakfast. The glucose-lowering effect of glimepiride persists for 24 hours.
Drug Precautions
Pregnancy
Avoid use, insulin preferred.
Breastfeeding
Not recommended.
Children/elderly
Not recommended in children, use with caution in elderly.
Renal impairment
Start with lower dose and titrate carefully.
Monitoring
Regular blood glucose and HbA1c monitoring.
Drug interactions
NSAIDs, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors may enhance hypoglycemic effect.
FAQ
How Should I Take the Tablet?
Take once daily with first main meal.
What Should I Avoid While Taking?
Alcohol, skipping meals.
What Happens if I Miss a Dose?
Take as soon as remembered, unless close to next dose. Do not double dose.
