Glibenclamide

Dosage forms available

• Glibenclamide is available for oral use in the form of tablets.

• This medicine is taken by mouth, ensuring it is accessible and convenient for patients managing type 2 diabetes.

Age and dose restrictions

• Glibenclamide is meant for use in adults only.

Contraindications

• This medicine is contraindicated in patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment.

• It is also not suitable for those with a known hypersensitivity to sulfonylureas.

Other medications to avoid

• Glibenclamide may interact with non-selective beta-blockers (such as propranolol and nadolol), salicylates (like aspirin), sulfonamides (such as sulfamethoxazole), chloramphenicol, probenecid, coumarins (like warfarin), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (like selegiline), and antifungals (such as fluconazole).

• Additionally, interactions may occur with thiazides, corticosteroids (like prednisone), phenytoin, thyroid products, estrogens, oral contraceptives, phenothiazines (like chlorpromazine), and sympathomimetics (such as epinephrine).

Overdose and missed dose

• An overdose of Glibenclamide can lead to severe hypoglycemia, which might present symptoms such as confusion, trembling, excessive sweating, and even loss of consciousness. Immediate medical intervention is crucial in such cases.

• If you miss a dose of Glibenclamide, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.

Management of side effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• To manage nausea or heartburn that may occur with Glibenclamide, consider taking the medication with or after food.

• If dizziness occurs, ensure you stand up slowly from a sitting or lying position to prevent falls.

Use in driving and operating machinery

• Glibenclamide may cause dizziness or light-headedness in some individuals. It is advisable to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how Glibenclamide affects you.

Use in pregnancy and lactation

• Glibenclamide is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Consult your doctor for safer alternatives.

Caution in other conditions

• Caution should be exercised when using Glibenclamide in elderly patients and those who are malnourished.

• Patients with mild to moderate renal or hepatic impairment should start on a lower dose due to the increased risk of hypoglycemia.

Special dietary and lifestyle recommendations

• Adhering to a balanced diet rich in fibre and low in simple sugars can augment the effectiveness of Glibenclamide in managing blood glucose levels.

• Regular physical activity can help enhance insulin sensitivity, which complements the action of Glibenclamide.

• Monitoring carbohydrate intake is crucial; consider spacing carbohydrates evenly throughout the day to prevent spikes in blood glucose levels.

• It may be helpful to work with a dietitian to create an eating plan that aligns with your health goals and medication regimen.