Glyburide (DiaBeta, Glynase, PresTab, Glycron, Micronase)

Unlike some anti-diabetic drugs which have been on the market for only a few years, glyburide has been approved for use by the Food and Drug Administration since 1984. Many diabetes patients find glyburide to be a safe and convenient way to maintain their blood glucose within their target range.

Glyburide overview

Brand names: Glyburide is marketed under the following brand names:

• DiaBeta
• Glynase PresTab
• Glycron
• Micronase
  

Drug class: Glyburide belongs to the sulfonylurea class of drugs. Other drugs in this class include glimepiride (Amaryl) and glipizide (Glucotrol). These drugs stimulate insulin production by the pancreas and can lower blood sugar levels by helping the body use insulin more effectively.

Dosage: Glyburide comes in an oral tablet, generally taken once each morning.

Side effects: The federal Agency on Healthcare Research and Quality reports glyburide can cause stomach problems such as heartburn and nausea, as well as weight gain. It is also associated with a three-to five-fold increase in the risk of unsafe low blood sugar levels.