Glyburide

Nursing pharmacology study reference (NCLEX-style monograph). Numeric values are standard teaching ranges for study and must be verified against current manufacturer labeling before clinical use. This is educational content, not prescribing guidance.

Glyburide (brand name DiaBeta) — Antidiabetic; Second-generation sulfonylurea.

Identification

• Therapeutic class: Antidiabetic.
• Pharmacologic class: Second-generation sulfonylurea.

Pharmacology

• Mechanism of action: Stimulates insulin secretion; longer acting with higher hypoglycemia risk in elderly.
• Onset / peak / duration: Onset 1 hour; duration up to 24 hours.
• Half-life / therapeutic level: Half-life about 10 hours; no routine level.

Clinical use

• Indications: Type 2 diabetes.
• Usual dose, route, frequency: 1.25 to 10 mg PO once or twice daily.
• Maximum dose / adjustments: Max about 20 mg/day; avoid in elderly and significant renal impairment due to prolonged hypoglycemia.

Safety

• Contraindications: Type 1 diabetes, ketoacidosis, sulfonamide hypersensitivity, severe renal impairment.
• Black box warning: Sulfonylurea class cardiovascular mortality caution (older labeling).
• Interactions: Same as other sulfonylureas.
• Pregnancy / lactation: Generally avoided.
• High-alert: No.

Adverse effects

• Common side effects: Hypoglycemia, weight gain.
• Serious effects to report: Prolonged severe hypoglycemia.
• Antidote / reversal: Glucose or glucagon.

Nursing process

• Assessment before administration: Blood glucose, renal function, age.
• Interventions during therapy: Caution in older adults; monitor for delayed lows.
• Monitor: Blood glucose, A1c.
• Evaluation / expected outcome: Glycemic control.

Patient teaching

• Patient teaching: Take with meals; watch for lows.
• Notify provider if: Frequent or prolonged lows.
• Administration tips: With food.