Sulfonylurea

Sulfonylureas are a class of organic compounds that are widely used in medicine and agriculture. They are the first-line of oral medication for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Sulfonylureas are also used in some pesticides.

History

The use of sulfonylureas in medicine dates back to the 1950s. They were discovered by Marcel Janbon and colleagues, who were looking for sulfonamide antibiotics and found that the sulfonylurea compounds had hypoglycemic effects.

Medical uses

Sulfonylureas are primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes. They work by increasing the release of insulin from the beta cells in the pancreas. This helps to lower blood sugar levels.

There are two generations of sulfonylureas. First-generation sulfonylureas include tolbutamide, acetohexamide, tolazamide, and chlorpropamide. Second-generation sulfonylureas include glyburide, glipizide, and glimepiride.

Side effects

Common side effects of sulfonylureas include hypoglycemia, weight gain, and skin rash. Less common side effects include jaundice, anemia, and allergic reactions.

Mechanism of action

Sulfonylureas bind to the sulfonylurea receptor (SUR) on the beta cells in the pancreas. This causes the cells to release insulin.

See also

• Antidiabetic medication
• Insulin therapy
• Diabetes management

External links

• Sulfonylureas at PubMed Health

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