Difference between revisions of "Chlorpropamide"

Latest revision as of 10:13, 20 September 2010

This article does not cite any references or sources. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. (December 2009)

Chlorpropamide is a drug in the sulphonylurea class used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is a long-acting sulphonylurea. It has more side effects than other sulphonylureas and its use is no longer recommended.

Mechanism of action

Like other sulphonylureas, chlorpropamide acts to increase the secretion of insulin, so it is only effective in patients who have some pancreatic beta cell function. It can cause relatively long episodes of hypoglycemia; this is one reason why shorter-acting sulfonylureas such as gliclazide or tolbutamide are used instead. The risk of hypoglycemia makes this drug a poor choice for the elderly and patients with mild to moderate hepatic and renal impairment.

Cautions and contraindications

Chlorpropamide and other sulphonylureas encourage weight gain, so they are generally not favored for use in very obese patients. Metformin is considered a better drug for these patients. Sulfonylureas should be avoided in patients with hepatic and renal impairment, patients with porphyria, patients who are breastfeeding, and patients with ketoacidosis. Not indicated for patients more than 65 years of age.

Other side effects

Other side effects of chlorpropamide include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. It may cause facial flushing after the ingestion of alcohol. It may increase secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which can lead to hyponatremia.