SULFONOUREAS

Structure/Class
  1. Insulin secretagogues
Pharmacodynamics
  1. Functions by binding to a K+ channel, preventing K+ efflux.
    • This causes depolarization and opening of a voltage gated Ca2+ channel, that releases the pre-formed insulin.
  2. Long-term sulfonourea administration causes a reduction in the secretion of glucagon. This causes its hypoglycemic effect.

 

Examples of first generation sulfonoureas are tolbutamide, chlopropamide and tolazamide.

Examples of second generation sulfonoureas are glipizide, glyburide and glimepiride.