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Glyburide

Brand names: Glynase, Glucovance (with metformin)

Glyburide helps the pancreas release more insulin to lower blood sugar in type 2 diabetes.

Brand namesGlynase, Glucovance (with metformin)
Type of medicineSulfonylurea (diabetes medicine)
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It has a higher risk of low blood sugar than glipizide, especially in older adults.

What it's used for

  • Type 2 diabetes

How to take it

  • Take it with breakfast or the first main meal.
  • Don't skip meals after taking it.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Low blood sugar
  • Nausea
  • Weight gain
Call 911Severe low blood sugar: confusion, seizure, or passing out. Use glucagon if you have it, then call 911.
Call your provider todayFrequent low blood sugar
Call 911A blistering, peeling, or widespread red rash, especially with fever

Warnings

  • Usually avoided in older adults and people with kidney disease.
  • Tell your provider if you're allergic to sulfa drugs.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Alcohol, insulin, and other diabetes medicines add to low blood sugar risk.
  • Bosentan must not be taken with it.
  • Beta blockers can hide signs of low blood sugar.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Insulin is usually preferred in pregnancy. Talk with your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.