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 and 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.
