Equivalent Dose of Gliclazide for Glyburide (Glibenclamide)
6 mg of glyburide (glibenclamide) is equivalent to approximately 80-120 mg of gliclazide. 1
Sulfonylurea Equivalence and Considerations
- Glyburide (glibenclamide) is a more potent sulfonylurea than gliclazide, requiring lower doses to achieve similar glycemic effects 2, 3
- Glyburide has a longer duration of action and higher risk of hypoglycemia compared to gliclazide, which is why dose conversion must account for these differences 4
- When converting between sulfonylureas, it's important to consider that gliclazide has a more favorable safety profile, particularly in patients with renal impairment 4
Dosing Recommendations
- Gliclazide is preferred over glyburide in patients with renal impairment (eGFR <50 mL/min/1.73m²) due to lower risk of hypoglycemia 4
- Glyburide should be avoided in patients with GFR <30 mL/min/1.73m² as it is mainly renally excreted and can cause prolonged hypoglycemia 4
- Gliclazide can be used with caution in patients with GFR <30 mL/min/1.73m² as it is mainly metabolized in the liver 4
Clinical Considerations When Switching
When switching from glyburide to gliclazide:
Gliclazide may be safer than glyburide in:
Dosing Equivalence Table
| Glyburide (Glibenclamide) | Gliclazide |
|---|---|
| 2.5 mg | 30-40 mg |
| 5 mg | 60-80 mg |
| 6 mg | 80-120 mg |
| 10 mg | 160-240 mg |
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Failing to adjust the dose when switching between sulfonylureas with different potencies and durations of action 1, 5
- Not considering renal function when selecting the appropriate sulfonylurea 4
- Overlooking the need for more frequent glucose monitoring during the transition period 4
- Assuming equivalent hypoglycemic risk between different sulfonylureas (gliclazide has lower risk than glyburide) 4