Glimepiride
Glimepiride is an oral sulfonylurea medication used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus by stimulating the pancreas to release more insulin.
Glimepiride is a diabetes medication that lowers blood sugar by stimulating insulin release from pancreatic beta cells.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- A10BB12
- RxNorm
- 25789
- Generic
- Glimepiride
- Class
- atc-a10
- Brands
- Amaryl, Duetact
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults when blood glucose is not adequately controlled by diet, exercise, and weight reduction alone, or when other medications are insufficient.
Glimepiride binds to the sulfonylurea receptor on pancreatic beta cells, closing ATP-sensitive potassium channels. This depolarizes the cell membrane, triggering calcium influx and stimulating insulin secretion.
Can cause hypoglycemia, especially when meals are skipped; may cause weight gain; must be taken with food as directed; not suitable for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis; effectiveness may decrease over time as pancreatic beta cells tire.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy