What is the effect of Glipizide (Glipizide) on zinc transport with positive zinc transporters?

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Last updated: March 10, 2025 • View editorial policy

From the Guidelines

Glipizide does not have a direct established effect on zinc transport with positive zinc transporters, and its primary mechanism is stimulating insulin release from pancreatic beta cells to lower blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes. The interaction between glipizide and zinc is more related to their combined effects on glucose metabolism rather than a direct interaction on zinc transport. Glipizide, as a sulfonylurea medication, works by binding to ATP-sensitive potassium channels on beta cells, which leads to insulin release 1. Zinc, on the other hand, plays a crucial role in insulin storage and secretion, and some research suggests that zinc supplementation may improve glycemic control. However, the specific effect of glipizide on zinc transport, particularly with positive zinc transporters, is not well-established in the literature.

When considering the use of glipizide and zinc together, it's essential to monitor blood glucose levels closely, as zinc might potentially enhance glipizide's glucose-lowering effects, potentially causing hypoglycemia in some cases. The standard glipizide dosage ranges from 5-40mg daily, typically starting at 5mg with meals, while zinc supplementation is usually taken at 15-30mg daily. It's also important to note that patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) may require adjusted dosing of glipizide to avoid hypoglycemia, as the drug's clearance is decreased in patients with substantial decreases in eGFR 2.

In terms of zinc supplementation, guidelines suggest that patients undergoing bariatric surgery should receive a multivitamin and mineral containing at least the government-recommended daily allowance for zinc, with specific recommendations for zinc supplementation varying depending on the type of surgery and the patient's individual needs 3, 4. However, these guidelines do not specifically address the interaction between glipizide and zinc in the context of diabetes management.

Overall, while there is no direct established effect of glipizide on zinc transport with positive zinc transporters, patients taking both glipizide and zinc supplements should be closely monitored for potential hypoglycemia and adjusted dosing as needed, particularly in the context of CKD or other conditions that may affect glucose metabolism. The most recent and highest quality study on the management of hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes recommends sulfonylureas, including glipizide, as a reasonable choice for glucose-lowering therapy, with careful consideration of the risk of hypoglycemia 1.

From the Research

Effect of Glipizide on Zinc Transport

There are no research papers to assist in answering this question, as the provided studies do not discuss the effect of Glipizide on zinc transport with positive zinc transporters.

Available Information on Glipizide

  • The studies provided discuss the pharmacological properties, therapeutic use, and clinical efficacy of Glipizide in treating diabetes mellitus 5, 6, 7, 8, 9.
  • Glipizide is a second-generation oral hypoglycaemic agent that is completely absorbed after oral administration and has a rapid onset of action 5.
  • It is effective in controlling blood glucose in patients with noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus 6, 8.
  • The clinical pharmacology of Glipizide suggests that it has a rapid absorption and onset of action, as well as a short half-life and effect-duration 9.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

Clinical pharmacology of glipizide.

The American journal of medicine, 1983

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.