Gliclazide is indicated for the treatment of non insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) of patients who require oral antidiabetic treatment.

Sulfonylureas

Gliclazide is a second generation sulfonylurea drug that has hypoglycaemic and potentially useful haemobiological properties. It stimulates the release of insulin from pancreatic ß-cells by facilitating Ca²⁺ transport across the ß-cell membranes and decreases hepatic glucose output.

Oral route: The usual initial dose is 40 to 80 mg daily. The dose can be increased upto 320 mg daily in divided doses when needed. The drug should be taken before meal. For children Gliclazide is not used because it is contraindicated in juvenile- onset diabetes.

The hypoglycaemic effects of Gliclazide may be increased by Aspirin, NSAIDs, Phenylbutazone, Clofibrate, Sulfonamides, Cimetidine, Imidazole antifungal agents and Monoamine Oxidase inhibitors. The hypoglycaemic effect of Gliclazide some times may be reduced by Rifampin, Barbiturates, Phenytoin, Thiazide diuretics, Diazoxide, Glucocorticoids, Estrogens, Sympathomimectic drugs and occasionally Alcohol.

Gliclazide should not be used in-

• Juvenile-onset (type-I) diabetes
• Diabetes associated with Ketosis
• Diabetic patients undergoing surgery, after severe injury or during infection
• Patients having hypersensitivity for sulfonylurea group of drugs
• Pregnant women and breast-feeding mother
• Hepatic insufficiency

There may be hypoglycaemia in concurrent conditions such as hepatic and renal disease, malnutrition, alcohol intoxication. Sometimes headache, gastrointestinal upsets, nausea, dizziness, skin reactions including rash, pruritus, erythema may occur.

Gliclazide is contraindicated in pregnant women. It should not be used in breast feeding mother.

Gliclazide should be used carefully in patients with hepatic impairment. If there is definite hepatic disease then gliclazide should not be used. Gliclazide can be used safely in patients with renal insufficiency as it is extensively metabolized. Gliclazide has less sudden hypoglycaemic episode than other sulfonylurea group of drugs.

Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.