Gliclazide 60mg XR

Gliclazide 60 mg XR is an oral antidiabetic tablet used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus. It belongs to the sulfonylurea class of medicines that help control blood sugar levels when diet and exercise alone are not enough. The extended-release (XR) form provides slow and steady release of the drug, keeping your glucose levels stable throughout the day.

This medicine is usually taken once daily and is prescribed under medical supervision to help maintain long-term glycemic control and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.

What Is Gliclazide 60 mg XR Used For?

Gliclazide 60 mg XR is used to treat adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus whose blood sugar levels cannot be controlled by lifestyle changes alone. It works best when combined with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management.

Doctors often prescribe Gliclazide XR as part of a diabetes management plan to lower fasting blood sugar, improve energy, and prevent serious issues such as nerve damage, kidney problems, or eye complications caused by uncontrolled glucose levels.

How Gliclazide 60 mg XR Works

Gliclazide belongs to the sulfonylurea class of medicines. It helps the pancreas release more insulin by stimulating the beta cells responsible for insulin production. The extra insulin lowers glucose levels in the blood and improves the body’s use of sugar for energy.

The extended-release formula of Gliclazide 60 mg XR ensures a steady supply of the drug throughout the day. This helps maintain balanced blood sugar without sudden peaks or drops, reducing the chance of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar episodes).

Dosage and Administration

• The usual adult dose is one tablet of Gliclazide 60 mg XR taken once daily, preferably with breakfast.

• Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush, split, or chew it.

• Your doctor may adjust the dose depending on blood sugar levels, age, and other medical conditions.

• Always follow your physician’s directions exactly.

• If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Never double up on tablets.

Consistent use helps maintain even blood sugar levels and prevents complications associated with type 2 diabetes.

Key Benefits of Gliclazide 60 mg XR

1. Stable glucose control: Maintains steady sugar levels throughout the day with fewer highs and lows.

2. Convenient once-daily dosing: Improves patient adherence compared with short-acting tablets.

3. Extended-release action: Provides long-lasting effect without frequent dosing.

4. Better insulin response: Supports natural insulin release and improved glucose metabolism.

5. Reduced hypoglycemia risk: The XR design lowers the likelihood of sudden sugar drops.

6. Improved quality of life: Helps people manage diabetes more easily while following a balanced lifestyle.

These benefits make Gliclazide XR a trusted medication in long-term diabetes management plans.

Possible Side Effects

Most people tolerate Gliclazide 60 mg XR well, but some may experience mild side effects that usually disappear as the body adjusts.

Common side effects:

• Dizziness or headache

• Nausea, vomiting, or stomach upset

• Fatigue or weakness

• Mild weight gain

• Increased appetite

Serious side effects (seek medical help):

• Symptoms of low blood sugar such as sweating, tremors, blurred vision, or confusion

• Allergic reactions including rash, itching, or swelling

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) indicating possible liver issues

If you experience any unusual or persistent symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Drug Interactions

Gliclazide 60 mg XR can interact with several other medicines. Always inform your doctor about all the drugs, supplements, and herbal products you are using.

Potential interactions include:

• Metformin or insulin: May increase the risk of hypoglycemia if not monitored.

• Antibiotics such as clarithromycin: Can enhance Gliclazide’s blood sugar–lowering effect.

• Antifungal agents like fluconazole: May increase drug levels in the blood.

• Corticosteroids and diuretics: Can raise blood sugar, reducing Gliclazide’s effectiveness.

• Alcohol: Should be avoided, as it can cause dangerous drops or spikes in blood glucose.

Monitoring and regular check-ups are essential when combining Gliclazide with other medications.

Warnings and Precautions

• Not for type 1 diabetes: Gliclazide is suitable only for type 2 diabetes patients.

• Kidney or liver impairment: Dose adjustments may be necessary; consult your physician.

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Use only if advised by a healthcare provider.

• Driving caution: Hypoglycemia can impair alertness. Check your sugar before operating machinery.

• Fasting or illness: Prolonged fasting or illness may require temporary discontinuation or dose change.

Regular blood sugar monitoring and medical supervision are key to safe use.

Storage Instructions

• Store Gliclazide 60 mg XR tablets below 25 °C, in a dry place away from moisture and sunlight.

• Keep tablets in their original blister pack until use.

• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack.

• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

• Dispose of unused tablets responsibly following local guidelines.

Proper storage helps maintain the medicine’s quality and effectiveness.

Clinical Considerations

People taking Gliclazide 60 mg XR should maintain:

• A balanced diet with controlled carbohydrate intake.

• Regular physical activity as advised by a doctor.

• Periodic blood tests to check fasting and post-meal glucose levels.

• Routine visits to monitor progress and adjust dosage if needed.

Doctors may also recommend checking HbA1c levels every three months to evaluate long-term glucose control. Combining lifestyle changes with medication leads to the best outcomes in managing diabetes.

Summary

Gliclazide 60 mg XR is a reliable, extended-release oral medication used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus. By stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin, it helps keep blood sugar within healthy limits. The once-daily XR tablet provides smooth and continuous control, minimizing fluctuations and lowering hypoglycemia risk.

Used alongside proper diet, exercise, and regular check-ups, Gliclazide 60 mg XR supports steady glucose regulation and overall well-being. Always use it under your doctor’s supervision for safe and effective diabetes management.