What it means
A first-generation sulfonylurea for type 2 diabetestipe too dy-uh-BEE-teezA form of diabetes in which the body does not respond well to insulin and does not make enough of it to keep blood glucose normal.Full entry . It lasts much longer in the body than newer drugs of its class, so low blood sugar from it can be long and repeated. With alcohol it can cause flushing and nausea, and it can lower the blood sodium. It is rarely used today; the brand Diabinese is no longer made, though generic tablets have been sold.
For the nurse
ISMP lists oral sulfonylureas as high-alert drugs because the low blood sugar they cause can be severe. Teach the signs of hypoglycemiahy-poh-gly-SEE-mee-uhA blood glucose level below normal, under 70 mg/dL.hypo- belowglyc/o sugar, glucose-emia in the bloodFull entry , regular meals, and to avoid alcohol. The Beers Criteria advise against it in older adults.
At a glance
| Drug class | sulfonylurea (first generation) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Diabinese |
| Spanish | clorpropamida |
Related terms
insulin
A hormone made by the pancreas that lets the body's cells take in glucose, also made as a medicine.
hypoglycemia
A blood glucose level below normal, under 70 mg/dL.
type 2 diabetes
A form of diabetes in which the body does not respond well to insulin and does not make enough of it to keep blood glucose normal.