Gliclazide is an oral antihyperglycemic agent used for the treatment of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). Gliclazide presents a higher potency and a shorter half-life. Gliclazide belongs to the sulfonylurea class of insulin secretagogues, which act by stimulating β cells of the pancreas to release insulin. Gliclazide has been shown to decrease fasting plasma glucose, postprandial blood glucose and glycosolated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels. Gliclazide is extensively metabolized by the liver; its metabolites are excreted in both urine (60-70%) and feces (10-20%).Gliclazide binds to the β cell sulfonyl urea receptor (SUR1). This binding subsequently blocks the ATP sensitive potassium channels. The binding results in closure of the channels and leads to a resulting decrease in potassium efflux leads to depolarization of the β cells. This opens voltage-dependent calcium channels in the β cell resulting in calmodulin activation, which in turn leads to exocytosis of insulin containing secretorty granules.

• This medication is used in conjunction with diet and exercise regimens to control high blood sugar in non-insulin dependent diabetic patients. 
• Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent heart disease, strokes, kidney disease, circulation pro.

• Nausea, stomach upset or diarrhea may occur as your body adjusts to the medication.
• Notify your doctor if you develop a skin rash, itching, easy bruising or bleeding, fever, weakness, trembling or chills while taking this medication. 
• This medication may cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) which manifests as dizziness, weakness, drowsiness, headache, sweating, nervousness, shaking, tingling of the hands or feet, hunger, fast heartbeat.

•  Tell your doctor if you have: liver problems, kidney problems, any allergies. This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun's effects. Avoid prolonged sun exposure.
• Notify your doctor if you become ill, are injured or acquire a severe infection. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy and should be used only if clearly needed while breast-feeding.
• Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, including: sulfonamide antibiotics, blood thinners, antidepressants, aspirin, propranolol, rifampin, phenylbutazone, disopyramide, probenecid, clofibrate, water pills, steroids, oral contraceptives, cimetidine.
• Avoid ingestion of alcohol while taking this drug because an intolerance may occur resulting in flushing, giddiness, nausea, rapid heart rate. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
• OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include headache, sweating, shakiness, increased hunger, changes in vision, nervousness, tiredness, seizures, and loss of consciousness.