What it does
Gliclazide is a medication used to help control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
Commonly used for: type 2 diabetes, non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus
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Source: Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-21 17:37:39 · updated 2026-09-29 04:33:04
About this medicine
Gliclazide is a medication used to help control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
What it treats
- type 2 diabetes
- non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus
How it works
Gliclazide works by increasing the amount of insulin your body produces after meals, which helps lower blood sugar levels.
Who it's for
It is for adults with type 2 diabetes who need help managing their blood sugar.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: gliciazide
Gliclazide is an oral hypoglycemic agent belonging to the sulfonylurea class, primarily used for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It functions by stimulating pancreatic beta cells to release insulin, thereby lowering blood glucose levels. Gliclazide is often prescribed when diet, exercise, and weight loss alone do not provide adequate control of blood glucose levels.
Indications
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus
- Non-insulin dependent diabetes
Dosage
Children: Refer to BNF for Children for appropriate dosing guidelines.
Adults: Refer to BNF for specific dosing recommendations based on individual patient needs and response.
Mechanism of action
Gliclazide binds to the sulfonylurea receptors on the beta cells of the pancreas, leading to an influx of calcium ions. This influx stimulates insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner, enhancing insulin release when glucose levels are elevated. Additionally, it may improve insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues and reduce hepatic glucose output.
Pharmacodynamics
Gliclazide lowers blood glucose levels primarily by increasing insulin secretion from the pancreas. It also has additional effects, such as reducing postprandial glucose levels and improving glycaemic control. Over time, it may help in preserving beta-cell function in the pancreas.
Pharmacokinetics
Gliclazide is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations typically occurring within 2 to 4 hours after oral administration. It has a bioavailability of approximately 90% and is extensively metabolized in the liver. The elimination half-life of gliclazide is about 10 to 12 hours, with the majority of the drug excreted in the urine as metabolites.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to gliclazide or any of its excipients
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Severe renal impairment
- Severe hepatic impairment
- Type 1 diabetes mellitus
Adverse effects
- Hypoglycemia
- Weight gain
- Gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
- Skin reactions (rash, pruritus)
- Hematological effects (leukopenia, thrombocytopenia)
- Liver enzyme abnormalities
Interactions
- Other antidiabetic agents (may enhance hypoglycemic effect)
- Beta-blockers (may mask hypoglycemic symptoms)
- Thiazides and other diuretics (may reduce the effectiveness of gliclazide)
- Anticoagulants (may increase the risk of bleeding)
- Alcohol (may potentiate hypoglycemia)
Precautions
- Monitor blood glucose levels regularly
- Use with caution in elderly patients
- Caution in patients with renal or hepatic impairment
- Avoid use in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to sulfonylureas
Pregnancy
Gliclazide should be avoided during pregnancy. Insulin is preferred for managing diabetes in pregnant women.
Breast-feeding
Gliclazide may pass into breast milk. Caution is advised when administered to breastfeeding mothers.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Protect from light.
Formulations
- Immediate-release tablets (30 mg, 60 mg)
- Modified-release tablets (30 mg, 60 mg)
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.