Gliclazide (GZ)

Gliclazide is an oral hypoglycemic (anti-diabetic drug) and is classified as a sulfonylurea. Its classification has been ambiguous, as literature uses it as both a first-generation  and second-generation sulfonylurea. Gliclazide was proven to protect human pancreatic beta-cells from hyperglycemia-induced apoptosis. Gliclazide is used for control of hyperglycemia in gliclazide-responsive diabetes mellitus of stable, mild, non-ketosis prone, type 2 diabetes. It is used when diabetes cannot be controlled by proper dietary management and exercise or when insulin therapy is not appropriate. Gliclazide selectively binds to sulfonylurea receptors (SUR-1) on the surface of the pancreatic beta-cells. It was shown to provide cardiovascular protection as it does not bind to sulfonylurea receptors (SUR-2A) in the heart. This binding effectively closes the K+ ion channels.