Diaglit contains two oral anti-hyperglycemic drugs glimepiride and metformin hydrochloride used in the management of type-2 diabetes (NIDDM).
Pharmacodynamics
Glimepiride: The primary mechanism of action of glimepiride in lowering blood glucose appears to be dependent on stimulating the release of insulin from functioning pancreatic beta cells.
In addition, extra-pancreatic effects may also play a role in the activity of sulphonylureas such as glimepiride.
Metformin
Metformin improves glucose tolerance in patients with type-2 diabetes (NIDDM), lowering both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose, and improves insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization.
Hence, the combination of glimepiride and metformin sustained-release complements each other and provides better glycemic control in management of type-2 diabetes and probably in the prevention of its associated macrovascular and microvascular complications.