Sulfonylureas

Sulfonylureas are used for the treatment of type II diabetes. Sulfonylureas increase insulin secretion from beta cells of the pancreas in response to increased glucose levels.  Sulfonylureas are known to cause hypoglycemia, so care must be taken with dosing. Patients with renal failure/insufficiency are particularly susceptible to hypoglycemia with sulfonylureas because sulfonylureas are eliminated renally.  

Class Drugs

• Glyburide

• Glipizide

• Glimepiride

Class Mechanism of Action

Stimulates secretion of insulin

• Blocks K+ channels in Beta cells of the pancreas causing depolarization and increased calcium influx into cells. Increased calcium influx leads to insulin secretion.

Increases tissue insulin sensitivity

Decreases hepatic glucose synthesis

Class Applications

Type II Diabetes Mellitus

Class Adverse Effects

Hypoglycemia

• Caution in renal insufficiency as eliminated renally

Weight gain

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Glyburide			"Glider" "Buried"
Glipizide			"G-Lip" "Eid"
Glimepiride			"Slime" "Pirate"