Diamicron (gliclazide, antidiabetic agent)

Diamicron is the brand name of the drug gliclazide. Gliclazide increases the release of insulin and improves the body’s response to it.

Uses

What is Diamicron used for?

Diamicron is commonly used to control blood glucose in people with type 2 diabetes. It is prescribed when diet and exercise are not enough to control your blood sugar.

How should I take Diamicron?

Read the directions on the packaging for complete information. Check the label and expiration date.

Swallow it whole without chewing, crushing, or dissolving it in liquid. It is best taken with meals.

How do I store Diamicron?

This product is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. 

There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions & Warnings

What should I know before using Diamicron?

Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding.
• On a special diet or exercise plan (e.g. intermittent fasting, low-carb diet)
• Taking any other medicines. This includes any prescription, OTC, and herbal remedies.
• An allergy to any of the ingredients of this product.
• Any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy

Unfortunately, there isn’t enough information about the safety of using this drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, it is usually contraindicated (not allowed). Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking any medication.

Breastfeeding

It is not known if gliclazide passes into breast milk. If you are a breastfeeding mother and are taking Diamicron, it may affect your baby. Breastfeeding women should not take gliclazide.

Side Effects

What side effects can occur from Diamicron?

Like all drugs, this product may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:

• Allergic reaction or hypersensitivity
• Skin rash
• Nausea, vomiting
• Diarrhea
• GI disturbances
• Hypoglycemia
• Sweating
• Tachycardia
• Palpitations
• Chest pain
• Visual disturbances
• Weight gain

However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with Diamicron?

This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. 

To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. 

Drugs with known interactions:

• St. John’s wort
• Miconazole
• Phenylbutazone
• Fluoroquinolones
• MAOIs
• H2-receptor blockers
• NSAIDs
• Beta-2 agonists
• Glucocorticoids
• Other sulfonylureas or sulfonamides
• Other antidiabetic medications
• Warfarin

If you experience an adverse drug interaction, inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Approaches include dose adjustment, drug substitution, or ending therapy.

Does food or alcohol interact with Diamicron?

This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. It is best to take it with food. Avoid drinking alcohol as it can affect blood sugar control. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with Diamicron?

This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have, especially:

• Type 1 diabetes
• Diabetic coma or ketoacidosis
• Lactose intolerance
• Malnutrition
• Thyroid disorders
• Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
• Severe liver impairment
• Severe kidney impairment
• Infection

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

What is the dose for an adult?

Initially, take 1 tablet per day. After 14 days, the dose can be increased if needed. Maintenance dose: 1 to 4 tablets per day, with 2 tablets per day being the usual dose.

For elderly patients (>65 years), start with half a tablet and adjust the dose after 14 days if necessary.

What is the dose for a child?

There is no established pediatric dose. It may be unsafe for your child. It is always important to fully understand the safety of the drug before using. Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How is Diamicron available?

Diamicron is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

• Tablet: 80 mg
• Modified-release tablet: 30 mg, 60 mg

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.