Gliclazide 60 mg – Modified Release Tablet for Type 2 Diabetes

May 05, 2025

Introduction

GLICLAGLAZE MR 60 is a once-daily, modified-release oral antidiabetic formulation containing Gliclazide 60 mg, a second-generation sulfonylurea. This formulation is designed to deliver a sustained and controlled release of gliclazide, ensuring 24-hour glycemic control with reduced risk of hypoglycemia.It is especially suitable for adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus who require stable blood glucose management when diet, exercise, and monotherapy with metformin alone are insufficient.

What is Gliclazide 60 mg?

Gliclazide is an oral hypoglycemic agent that enhances insulin secretion from pancreatic beta-cells. It helps lower both fasting blood glucose (FBG) and postprandial glucose (PPG) levels and is known for a lower risk of severe hypoglycemia compared to older sulfonylureas.Modified Release (MR) technology allows once-daily dosing while minimizing fluctuations in plasma levels, improving both efficacy and tolerability.

Mechanism of Action

Gliclazide acts primarily by:

Stimulating insulin release from pancreatic beta cells by binding to ATP-sensitive potassium channels (KATP)
Improving first-phase insulin response
Exhibiting antioxidant and antiplatelet effects, contributing to vascular protection
Helping improve microvascular complications (retinopathy, nephropathy)

Therapeutic Benefits of GLICLAGLAZE MR 60

Benefit	Description
Once-daily dosing	Improves patient compliance with modified release
Stable glycemic control	Maintains steady-state plasma levels over 24 hours
Low hypoglycemia risk	Safer than older sulfonylureas like glibenclamide
Cardiovascular safety	PROactive study shows vascular protective benefits
Microvascular protection	Slows progression of retinopathy and nephropathy
Weight neutrality	Minimal or no weight gain in clinical use

Indications and Uses

GLICLAGLAZE MR 60 is indicated for:

Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults
Monotherapy or in combination with metformin, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, DPP-4 inhibitors, or insulin (in select cases)
Patients with stable eating patterns requiring smooth glucose control

Gliclazide 60 mg Dosage and Administration

Factor	Dosage
Usual adult dose	1 tablet (60 mg) once daily with breakfast
Max dose	Up to 120 mg/day (split dose if needed)
Initiation	Start with 30–60 mg daily, adjust every 2 weeks
Administration	Oral, swallow whole – do not crush or chew
Special population	Start low and titrate in elderly or renal impairment

Note: Close blood glucose monitoring is advised during dose titration.

Gliclazide 60 mg Tablet – Pharmacokinetics

Onset of Action: 1–2 hours
Peak Effect: 6–12 hours
Duration: ~24 hours
Bioavailability: >95%
Protein Binding: ~95%
Metabolism: Liver (CYP2C9 pathway)
Excretion: Urine (mostly metabolites)

Side Effects of Gliclazide MR 60 mg

Common Side Effects:

Hypoglycemia (especially in elderly or missed meals)
Nausea, dyspepsia
Headache, dizziness

Rare but Serious:

Liver enzyme elevation
Hematological disorders (rare)
Allergic skin reactions
Photosensitivity

Management Tip: Carry sugar candy or glucose tablets to manage mild hypoglycemia.

Contraindications

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetic ketoacidosis or pre-coma
Severe renal or hepatic impairment
Sulfonylurea or sulfonamide allergy
Pregnant or breastfeeding women

Precautions

Avoid skipping meals to prevent hypoglycemia
Regularly monitor blood glucose and HbA1c
Dose reduction may be required in elderly patients
Not suitable for use in gestational diabetes
Monitor renal and liver function periodically

Drug Interactions

Drug Type	Effect
Beta-blockers	May mask hypoglycemia symptoms
NSAIDs & sulfonamides	Enhance hypoglycemic action
Corticosteroids, thiazides	Reduce efficacy of gliclazide
Alcohol	May potentiate or mask hypoglycemia
Warfarin	Gliclazide may alter INR – monitor closely

Storage Information

Store below 30°C
Protect from moisture and direct sunlight
Keep out of reach of children

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is Gliclazide 60 mg used for?
It is used to manage blood glucose levels in adults with Type 2 Diabetes when diet, exercise, or other oral medications are not sufficient.

Q2. Can I take Gliclazide MR 60 with metformin?
Yes, Gliclazide can be safely combined with metformin for synergistic glucose control.

Q3. Does Gliclazide cause weight gain?
Minimal to no weight gain is observed; however, healthy lifestyle practices are recommended.

Q4. Is it safe in kidney disease?
It can be used cautiously in mild to moderate renal impairment. Avoid in severe kidney failure.

Q5. What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it’s close to the next scheduled dose. Do not double-dose.

Conclusion

GLICLAGLAZE MR 60 offers a scientifically balanced and patient-friendly approach to glycemic control in Type 2 Diabetes. With its once-daily modified release Gliclazide 60 mg, it delivers effective blood sugar control with minimal hypoglycemia risk and added microvascular benefits. It stands as a dependable choice for long-term diabetes management.

About The Author

STERIS HEALTHCARE PVT LTD

Steris Healthcare Pvt Ltd, known as Sterispharma, was founded in February 2018 by a team of experienced professionals in the pharmaceutical industry. Headquartered in Navi Mumbai, the company holds certifications from WHO, GMP, and ISO, reflecting its dedication to maintaining high standards of quality and safety. Sterispharma’s mission is to provide affordable, high-quality medications across India, strictly adhering to WHO guidelines. With the convenience of an online pharmacy, customers can easily order medicines with home delivery options.

For further information

Email: info@sterispharma.com / contact@sterispharma.com

Call/WhatsApp: 8209542042 , 8824175417

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