Diamicron is a member of a family of sulphonylurea drugs used to treat Type 2 Diabetes. Drugs of this type act mainly by stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin. Increasing insulin levels lowers blood sugar level and the aim is to achieve blood sugar (glucose) levels in the range of 4-7. Other members of the sulphonylurea family are Glyburide, Diabeta, Tolbutamide and Chlorpropamide, these drugs should not be taken together with Diamicron. Since these drugs contain Sulpha, they should not be taken if you are allergic to Sulpha drugs or thiazide diuretics.

Diamicron should be taken according to the physician’s directions, the usual dose is from one to four tablets a day. The aim is to reduce blood glucose into the normal range. Larger doses than needed may lead to Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) with glucose levels below 4, possibly accompanied by sweating, shaking or nausea. If this happens to you, you should call the doctor. In my experience, it is rare for Diamicron to cause low blood sugar.

It is important to measure blood glucose levels with your glucose meter and record in your glucose diary in order that you Diamicron dose can be appropriately adjusted at the next office visit.