Glizorem (Gliclazide)

Glizorem is indicated for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes diet, exercise, and lifestyle modifications.

• Improves glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes when monotherapy or combination therapy is appropriate.
• Can be used as an add‑on to metformin or other oral antidiabetic agents.
• May be considered in patients who have inadequate response to other sulfonylureas.
• Suitable for use in patients with stable renal function and without severe hepatic impairment.
• May be prescribed when a once‑daily oral hypoglycemic is preferred.

Like other sulfonylureas, Glizorem may cause a range of side effects; they are generally classified by frequency and severity.

Common

• Mild to moderate hypoglycemia, especially if meals are missed or delayed.
• Weight gain due to increased insulin activity.
• Nausea, abdominal discomfort, or diarrhoea.
• Dizziness or headache.

Serious

• Severe hypoglycemia leading to loss of consciousness or seizures.
• Allergic reactions such as skin rash, pruritus, or angioedema.
• Rare blood disorders like agranulocytosis or thrombocytopenia.

Before starting Glizorem, healthcare providers should evaluate several clinical factors to minimize risks and ensure appropriate use.

• Assess renal and hepatic function; dose adjustment may be needed in impairment.
• Review history of hypoglycemia or adrenal insufficiency.
• Use caution in elderly patients due to increased sensitivity to hypoglycemia.
• Monitor blood glucose regularly, especially during therapy initiation or dose changes.
• Avoid use in patients with known sulfonylurea allergy.
• Consider pregnancy and lactation status; benefits must outweigh potential risks.
• Evaluate concomitant use of drugs that affect insulin secretion.

Glizorem can interact with other medicines, altering blood glucose levels or increasing the risk of adverse events.

Avoid

• Concurrent use with other sulfonylureas or meglitinides, which may cause additive hypoglycemia.
• Strong CYP2C9 inhibitors (e.g., fluconazole, amiodarone) that can raise gliclazide concentrations.
• MAO‑B inhibitors, which may potentiate hypoglycemic effects.

Use with caution

• Beta‑blockers, which can mask hypoglycemia symptoms.
• Thiazide diuretics, which may reduce glucose‑lowering efficacy.
• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), as gliclazide may affect INR monitoring.