title: Gliclazide modified release: A critical review of pharmacodynamic, metabolic, and vasoprotective effects.
abstract: Gliclazide modified release (MR) is a new formulation of the drug gliclazide and is given once daily. The specifically designed hydrophilic matrix of gliclazide MR leads to a progressive drug release that parallels the 24-hour glycemic profile in type 2 diabetic patients. Development studies showed a sustained efficacy over 2 years coupled with a very good acceptability. Gliclazide MR acts selectively on adenosine triphosphate-dependent potassium (K(ATP)) channels of the pancreatic beta cell. No interaction with cardiovascular K(ATP) channels has been shown, indicating that the drug can be safely used in patients with ischemic heart disease. In addition, gliclazide MR shows the ability to inhibit key mechanisms in diabetic angiopathy, independently of glycemic control.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine I, Rudolfstiftung Hospital, Vienna, Austria.
authors.forename: Guntram
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Schernthaner
mesh_terms: D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D003924:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology; D003925:Diabetic Angiopathies / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005907:Gliclazide / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D006801:Humans; D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000493:pharmacokinetics
chemical_list: D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents; D005907:Gliclazide