Glipizide(K 4024; CP 2872) is used to treat high blood sugar levels caused by a type of diabetes mellitus called type 2 diabetes.Target: Potassium ChannelGlipizide is an oral rapid- and short-acting anti-diabetic drug from the sulfonylurea class. It is classified as a second generation sulfonylurea, which means that it undergoes enterohepatic circulation. Mechanism of action is produced by blocking potassium channels in the beta cells of the islets of Langerhans. By partially blocking the potassium channels, the cell remains depolarized, increasing the time the cell spends in the calcium release stage, which results in signaling leading to calcium influx. The increase in calcium will initiate more insulin release from each beta cell. Sulfonylureas may also cause the decrease of serum glucagon and potentiate the action of insulin at the extrapancreatic tissues [1, 2].
References:
[1]. Chowdary, K.P. and Y.S. Rao, Design and in vitro and in vivo evaluation of mucoadhesive microcapsules of glipizide for oral controlled release: a technical note. AAPS PharmSciTech, 2003. 4(3): p. E39.
[2]. Rao, N.G., et al., Suicide by combined insulin and glipizide overdose in a non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus physician: a case report. Med Sci Law, 2006. 46(3): p. 263-9.