Description:

Glibenclamide 5mg capsules is a second-generation sulfonylurea oral antidiabetic medication. It is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults when diet and exercise alone are insufficient to control blood glucose levels. Glibenclamide stimulates the beta cells of the pancreas to release more insulin, thereby lowering blood sugar. It is effective for patients with adequate residual pancreatic function and is often used as monotherapy or in combination with other antidiabetic agents like metformin.

Prescription: Prescription-only (Rx). Requires a doctor’s prescription (typically from a physician, endocrinologist, or general practitioner) with monitoring of blood glucose and HbA1c levels.

Therapeutic Category:

Antidiabetic / Sulfonylurea (oral blood glucose-lowering age).

Active Ingredients/Composition:

Each capsule contains: Glibenclamide BP 5 mg. Excipients: Standard capsule fillers (e.g., lactose, starch, magnesium stearate, and capsule shell components; refer to label for full list).

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant: 5 mg strength hard gelatin capsules (standard maintenance dose; often in blister packs of 10 or 30 capsules).

Consume Type:

Oral (capsule; swallow whole with water; preferably taken with breakfast or the first main meal of the day).

Directions/Usage: Adults: Starting dose is usually 2.5–5 mg once daily with breakfast. Maintenance dose: 5–15 mg daily (maximum 15 mg per day). Doses above 10 mg should be divided (e.g., morning and evening). Take consistently with meals to reduce the risk of hypoglycaemia. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. Regular blood glucose monitoring is essential. Follow the doctor’s exact instructions; dose may be adjusted based on response.

Common Side Effects:

• Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) – symptoms include sweating, trembling, hunger, confusion, dizziness
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or constipation
• Weight gain
• Headache
• Skin rash or itching (rare) Serious rare: Severe hypoglycaemia (especially in elderly or malnourished patients), cholestatic jaundice, blood disorders, or severe allergic reactions.

Package Type:

Blister packs (commonly 10 or 30 capsules per pack; foil-aluminum blisters in carton box).

Storage Advice: Store at room temperature (below 25–30°C), in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Keep in original packaging. Keep out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• Risk of hypoglycaemia — eat regular meals and carry fast-acting sugar (e.g., glucose tablets) if needed.
• Contraindicated in type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis, severe renal or hepatic impairment, or known hypersensitivity to sulfonylureas.
• Caution in elderly, malnourished, or patients with adrenal/pituitary insufficiency (higher hypoglycaemia risk).
• Pregnancy: Generally avoided (use insulin instead). Breastfeeding: Not recommended.
• Interactions: Many drugs can increase or decrease its effect (e.g., NSAIDs, beta-blockers, alcohol, rifampicin).
• Report symptoms of low blood sugar or persistent side effects promptly.
• Regular monitoring of blood glucose and HbA1c is essential.

Product Substitutes: Other glibenclamide 5mg tablets/capsules in Ghana: Daonil (original Sanofi), generic glibenclamide (various importers), or brands from Kinapharma, Dannex, or Entrance. Alternatives: Glimepiride, gliclazide, or metformin (first-line for type 2 diabetes). Consult a doctor/pharmacist for suitable options.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Ernest Chemist Limited

Country of Origin:

Ghana