DiaBeta (glibenclamide, also known as glyburide) is used alone or with other medications to help manage type 2 diabetes. It is not used to treat type 1 diabetes.

This medication is a member of the sulfonylureas drug family, and like other drugs in this class it works by stimulating the pancreas to release insulin. DiaBeta has been widely used for decades and has proven effective; however, it does unfortunately have some drawbacks not found in newer diabetes treatments, most notably causing drug-induced hypoglycemia. Patients using DiaBeta should familiarize themselves with the symptoms and treatment of hypoglycemia.

Managing Diabetes with DiaBeta

Most people with diabetes know that managing the condition is critical to maintaining quality of life. DiaBeta has allowed countless patients to do so since its introduction in the 1960s, and it continues to see widespread use in spite of its numerous more recently-developed competitors.

One reason for its popularity is simplicity of treatment, though this may vary to some extent depending on other medications being taken. In otherwise healthy adults treatment typically consists of:

• Start with 2.5 mg once per day (1.5 mg if sensitive to hypoglycemic drugs)
• If after one week the starting dose proves insufficient, dosage may be increased by 2.5 mg
• Dosage may continue to be increased weekly, if needed, up to 20 mg per day
• Each daily dose should be taken with the first meal of the day
• Treatment may continue for as long as it provides benefit

It's important to consult a doctor if transitioning to DiaBeta from another diabetic medication or if adding DiaBeta to an existing drug regimen; interactions can cause serious side effects.

As with most diabetic treatments, implementing a diet and exercise program is also highly recommended.

Finding the Ideal Treatment

Diabetes is a complex condition affecting the whole body; on top of that individual response to any given treatment can vary tremendously for often unclear reasons. While DiaBeta allows many diabetics to manage the condition with little trouble, it is not necessarily the best choice for everyone in every situation. Some variables to keep in mind:

• Patients with a history of hypoglycemia or sensitivity to hypoglycemic drugs may want to consider other options.
• If treating gestational diabetes, insulin or metformin usually produce better results.
• There is some evidence that simultaneous use of DiaBeta and metformin can produce dangerous adverse effects.
• Individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD deficiency) should not use this product without explicit doctor instruction.
• Do not use DiaBeta if taking the hypertension treatment bosentan.
• Patients with a history of kidney or liver impairment, thyroid disease, or nervous system problems should consult a doctor before use.

If DiaBeta doesn't produce satisfactory results, consult a doctor about other options---there are many alternative treatments available, and finding one that works well is worth the temporary hassle.

Side Effects

Most side effects from DiaBeta, if experienced at all, are mild and not cause for concern, including mild stomach upset, heartburn, and the stomach feeling full.

The biggest concern with DiaBeta use is hypoglycemia; anyone taking this medication should be alert for the warning signs:

• Shaking
• Rapid heartbeat
• Sudden sweating
• Blurred vision
• Tingling hands and/or feet
• Sudden and/or unusually strong hunger

Glucose tablets are the best emergency treatment for hypoglycemia; inexpensive and easily available, they're designed to quickly release a given dose of sugar. If glucose tablets aren't an option, anything containing real sugar (not artificial sweeteners)---or even plain sugar itself---will do in a pinch.

Consult a doctor or pharmacist about possible drug interactions if taking medications unrelated to diabetes; effectiveness of one or both of the medications may be reduced.