The place of gliclazide MB in modern treatment strategies for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Sulfonylurea (SU) are an effective class of oral hypoglycemic drugs that have been used in clinical practice for more than 70 years. Despite the common mechanism of action, members of the class have significant intraclass differences in hypoglycemic activity, safety, and the presence of extrapancreatic effects. This review examines the features of gliclazide modified release (MR), its differences from other representatives of the SU and its place in modern recommendations for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Gliclazide MR belongs to the modern 2nd generation SU with high hypoglycemic activity, low risk of hypoglycemia due to reversible binding to the SUR1 receptor and no effect on the Epac2 pathway, generally neutral effect on weight, proven nephroprotective properties and cardiovascular safety, which makes it possible to highlight it among representatives of the SU class. International and national clinical guidelines indicate the place of SU when it is necessary to intensify glucose-lowering therapy and glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.