Monograph: |
Gliclazide
A white or almost white powder. Practically insoluble in wa-
ter: slightly soluble in alcohol: sparingly soluble in acetone;
freely soluble in dichloromethane.
Adverse-Effects, Treatment, and Precautions
As for sulphonylureas in general, like glimepiride.
It has been suggested that gliclazide may be suitable
for use in patients with renal impairment, but careful
monitoring of blood-sugar concentration is essen-
tial. The UK manufacturers recommend that it
should not be used in patients with severe renal im-
pairment.
Interactions
As for sulphonylureas in general, like glimepiride.
Pharmacokinetics
Gliclazide is readily absorbed from the gastro-intes-
tinal tract. It is extensively bound to plasma pro-
teins. The half-life is about 10 to 12 hours.
Gliclazide is extensively metabolised in the liver to
metabolites without significant hypoglycaemic ac-
tivity. Metabolites and a small amount of unchanged
drug are excreted in the urine.
Uses and Administration
Gliclazide is a sulphonylurea hypoglycaemic. It is given by mouth
in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus and has a duration
of action of 12 hours or more. Because its effects are less
prolonged than those of chlorpropamide or gliben-
clamide it may be more suitable for elderly patients,
who are prone to hypoglycaemia with longer-acting
sulphonylureas. The usual initial dose is 40 to 80 mg
daily, gradually increased, if necessary, up to
320 mg daily. Doses of more than 160 mg daily are
given in 2 divided doses.
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