Glimepiride is a medium- to long-acting sulfonylurea antidiabetic drug. Glimepiride is indicated to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus; its mode of action is to increase insulin production by the pancreas. It is not used for type 1 diabetes because in type 1 diabetes the pancreas is not able to produce insulin. Its use is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to glimepiride or other sulfonylureas, and during pregnancy. Side effects from taking glimepiride include gastrointestinal tract (GI) disturbances, occasional allergic reactions, and rarely blood production disorders including thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, and hemolytic anemia. In the initial weeks of treatment, the risk of hypoglycemia may be increased. Alcohol consumption and exposure to sunlight should be restricted because they can worsen side effects. Gastrointestinal absorption is complete, with no interference from meals.
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