This is a drug which lowers blood glucose and is used in the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes.

The mechanism of action of Gluconorm is that it stimulates the pancreas to produce more insulin when we need it. It does this with a mechanism that is different from drugs like Glyburide, which also increase insulin secretion. Gluconorm is a very fast acting drug. It stimulates the pancreas to provide more insulin for about a one hour period (unlike Glyburide or other drugs of this family which have an effect greater than 12 hours).

Gluconorm is given at mealtime (from 30 min before to right before the meal). It then stimulates the pancreas to provide more insulin to the bloodstream for a one hour period (which corresponds to the time that the food is being absorbed). It thus reduces glucose levels after a meal (this is the time that glucose levels tend to rise highest in Diabetics). In order for this drug to work, you must have at least some function of the pancreas, thus Gluconorm is not used in Type 1 (insulin dependant) Diabetics because their Pancreatic function has been destroyed.

Since Gluconorm is very rapid acting (fast in & fast out) there is no residual effect lasting for hours and thus the likelihood of Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) between meals or before the next meal is diminished.

TIP: Gluconorm is taken only with meals and each and every time you have a meal. It can be taken up to 30 min before the meal. If you have an extra meal, take an extra pill. If you miss your meal, miss the pill. Watch for low blood sugar in the first hour or two after a meal until you have found out how the medication affects your blood glucose. Know the signs of low blood sugar and how to treat it.

Gluconorm comes in tablets of 0.5 mg, 1 mg and 2 mg. The dosage range is from 0.5 mg with each meal to 2 mg with each meal.

Call your physician if you are having any problems or have any questions