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Micronase (Glyburide) Buyer and Patient Handbook in South Africa

What is Micronase?

Micronase is a sulfonylurea oral tablet used to lower blood glucose in adults with type 2 diabetes. It works by stimulating the pancreas to release more insulin. The product is approved by the FDA, EMA and SA Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) and is available as a film-coated pill.

Who Should Use Micronase?

• Adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes who need additional glucose control.
• Patients whose diet and exercise plan alone does not achieve target blood sugar levels.
• Individuals whose kidneys function reasonably well (eGFR ≥ 30 mL/min/1.73 m²).

How Does It Work?

Micronase binds to sulfonylurea receptors on pancreatic β-cells, closing potassium channels and causing a surge of insulin release. Think of it as pressing the accelerator on an engine that pumps insulin into the bloodstream, helping glucose move from the blood into cells. It does not cause dependence, but hypoglycaemia can occur if meals are missed.

Why Choose Micronase?

The brand formulation offers consistent tablet strength and a well-studied safety record, which can be reassuring for patients who prefer a known product. Generic glyburide is also available in South Africa and provides a cost-effective option with identical therapeutic effect.

Dosage, Administration, Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations

Recommended Dosage

• 2.5 mg once daily, usually with breakfast.
• 5 mg once daily for patients needing stronger glucose control; dose may be increased after 2 weeks if needed.

How to Take

1. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
2. Take it at the same time each morning, preferably with the first main meal.
3. Do not crush or chew the tablet.

Missed Dose

If you remember a missed dose within 2 hours, take it with your next meal. Skip it if more than 2 hours have passed and continue with your regular schedule.

Overdose

Call emergency services (112) or go to the nearest hospital. If possible, give a gastric-lavage specimen and monitor blood glucose closely; treat hypoglycaemia with oral glucose or IV dextrose.

Special Populations

• Elderly: Start with 2.5 mg; monitor for low blood sugar.
• Renal impairment: Use the lowest dose and check kidney function regularly.
• Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Contra-indicated - switch to insulin-based therapy.

Lifestyle & Diet

• Avoid large quantities of grapefruit juice, which can raise drug levels.
• Limit alcohol, especially on an empty stomach, to reduce hypoglycaemia risk.
• Maintain regular meals and consistent carbohydrate intake.

Precautions and Warnings

• Do not use if you have a known allergy to sulfonylureas.
• Monitor blood glucose frequently during the first weeks of therapy.
• Inform your healthcare provider of any history of Heart Failure, liver disease or severe kidney disease.
• Use caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

Drug Interactions

Potential Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)
• Nausea
• Headache

Less Common Side Effects

• Dizziness
• Weight gain
• Skin rash

Serious Side Effects

• Severe hypoglycaemia causing loss of consciousness - call emergency services
• Liver injury (jaundice, dark urine) - stop medication and seek medical help
• Allergic reaction (swelling, breathing difficulty) - seek immediate care

Who Should Avoid This Medication?

• Individuals with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Patients with known hypersensitivity to glyburide or other sulfonylureas.
• Women who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Storage Instructions

• Keep tablets in the original container, tightly closed.
• Store at room temperature (15 °C-30 °C); protect from moisture and direct sunlight.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Micronase Alternatives

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly will Micronase lower my blood sugar?

The blood-glucose-lowering effect begins within 30 minutes and peaks after 2-4 hours.

Can I drink coffee while taking Micronase?

Moderate coffee intake does not affect the drug’s action, but avoid excessive caffeine that may cause palpitations.

Is it safe to consume alcohol?

Alcohol can increase the risk of hypoglycaemia, especially when taken without food; limit intake and monitor glucose closely.

What should I do if I experience a low blood sugar episode?

Consume 15 g of fast-acting carbohydrate (e.g., glucose tablets, fruit juice) and re-check glucose after 15 minutes.

Will Micronase cause weight gain?

Some patients gain a small amount of weight due to increased insulin levels; a balanced diet and exercise can mitigate this.

Can I use Micronase during pregnancy?

No. It is contraindicated; insulin is the preferred treatment for pregnant women with diabetes.

How do I switch from another sulfonylurea to Micronase?

Consult your healthcare provider for a personalized conversion plan; do not change doses on your own.

What happens if I stop taking Micronase abruptly?

Blood glucose may rise; discuss a tapering plan with your provider to avoid sudden hyperglycaemia.

Glossary

• Sulfonylurea: A class of drugs that increase insulin release from the pancreas.
• Hypoglycaemia: Abnormally low blood glucose, usually < 3.9 mmol/L.
• eGFR: Estimated glomerular filtration rate; a measure of kidney function.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Off-label use of Micronase is not recommended without a qualified healthcare professional’s guidance. Readers are responsible for verifying the suitability of this medication for their own health condition. Our service offers a platform to connect with licensed pharmacies in South Africa; we do not dispense medications directly. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or stopping any drug.