Sub Group:
ORAL ANTIDIABETICS & RELATED DRUGS
International Brand Name:
In treatment of:
treatment of type Diabetes Mellitus
Adverse Effects:
1. Hypoglycemia
2. Nausea
3. Vomiting
4. Diarrhoea
5. Constipation
6. Headache
7. Paresthesia
8. Hypersensitivity reactions
9. Rashes
10. Photosensitivity
11. Purpura
12. Transient leucopenia
13. Agranulocytosis
14.Temporary visual impairment
Contraiindication:
1. Hypersensitivity to the drug
2. Diabetic ketoacidosis
3. Diabetic coma
4. Juvenile diabetes mellitus
Special Precaution:
1. Malnourished and deliberate individuals
2. Strenous exercise and irregular meals may leads to hypoglycemia
3. Hepatic impairment
4. Renal impairment
5. Monitor glucose levels during therapy
6. Adrenal insufficiency
7. Pituitary insufficiency
8. Any work requiring mental alertness such as operating a vehicle or machine
Interaction:
Hypoglycaemic effect of glimepiride is enhanced by : Anticoagulants, Androgens, Chloramphenicol, Clofibrate, Fenfluramine, Fluconazole, Gemfibrozil, Histamine H2 anta-gonists, Magnesium Salts, Methyldopa, MAOIs, Phenylbutazone, Probenecid, Salicylates, Sulfinpyrazone, Sulfonamides, TCAs, & Urinary acidifiers.
Hypoglycemic effect of glimepiride inhibited by the following drugs : Beta-blockers, Cholestyramine, Diazoxide, Hydantoins, Rifampicin, Thiazide diuretics & Urinary alkalisers.
Charcoal : Reduces the absorption of glimepiride thus reducing its efficacy or toxicity.
Digitalis glycosides : Coadministration results in increased digitalis serum levels.
Servings:
Oral: Starts with 1mg daily; immediately before 1st main meals. Adjust the dosage by increments of 1to 2mg at 1 to 2week intervals based on patients response up to 6mg/day as required.
Maintenance dosage: 1 to 4mg once daily
Maximum dose: 8mg once daily