Sulfonylureas
Sulfonylureas
Sulfonylureas (pronounced: sul-foh-nil-yoo-ree-uhs) are a class of antidiabetic medications that are used in the management of diabetes mellitus type 2. They act by increasing insulin release from the beta cells in the pancreas.
Etymology
The term "sulfonylurea" is derived from its chemical structure, which consists of a sulfonyl group attached to a urea. Sulfonylureas were among the first oral medications available for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Types of Sulfonylureas
There are several types of sulfonylureas, including:
- First-generation sulfonylureas, such as tolbutamide and chlorpropamide
- Second-generation sulfonylureas, such as glipizide, glyburide, and glimepiride
Mechanism of Action
Sulfonylureas work by binding to specific receptors on the beta cells in the pancreas, which leads to an increase in insulin release. This increased insulin helps to lower blood glucose levels.
Side Effects
Common side effects of sulfonylureas include hypoglycemia, weight gain, and skin rash. Less common side effects can include gastrointestinal upset and liver disease.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sulfonylureas
- Wikipedia's article - Sulfonylureas
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