Glyburide, called glibenclamide in many countries, is a sulfonylurea for type 2 diabetes. Conventional and micronized tablets have different strengths and must not be treated as milligram-for-milligram equivalents.
The approved uses and formulations described here follow US prescribing information. They may differ in other countries.
| Medicine detail | Details |
|---|---|
| Active ingredient(s) | glyburide (also called glibenclamide) |
| Medicine class | Sulfonylurea |
| Forms and strengths | Conventional tablets: 1.25, 2.5 and 5 mg; micronized tablets: 1.5, 3 and 6 mg |
Names and treatment role
Glyburide stimulates insulin release and is used with diet and exercise in adults with type 2 diabetes. Glibenclamide is another name for the same ingredient, although product formulations and instructions can differ by country. It does not replace insulin for type 1 diabetes.
Micronized is a meaningful distinction
Conventional US tablets are labeled at 1.25, 2.5 and 5 mg; micronized tablets at 1.5, 3 and 6 mg. The formulations differ in absorption. A numerical dose comparison alone is not enough to choose a replacement, and a pharmacist or prescriber must resolve any unexpected formulation change.
Hypoglycemia and patient factors
Severe and prolonged low glucose can occur. Reduced food intake, older age, impaired kidney or liver function and other glucose-lowering medicines warrant special attention. Ask for a plan for illness or missed meals rather than relying on a standard tablet schedule during changing circumstances.
Interactions and other cautions
Concurrent bosentan is contraindicated in the US labeling. Sulfonylureas also carry a hemolytic-anemia warning for G6PD deficiency. Review the full medicine list, including newly prescribed drugs, because an interaction can change risk even when the glyburide dose has not changed.
What to bring to a medicine review
Bring the medicine pack or a list showing the full tablet name, strength and whether it is micronized. These details help the clinician assess the dose, glucose response and possible side effects. The ingredient name alone does not show which formulation is being taken.
Questions and answers
Is glibenclamide another name for glyburide?
Yes, but the locally supplied product and formulation still need checking.
Can micronized glyburide replace the same milligram dose of conventional glyburide?
Not on a milligram-for-milligram assumption. A clinician or pharmacist must review the intended conversion.
Can glyburide be taken with bosentan?
No. The US prescribing information contraindicates taking them together.
Related reading
Sources
- Glyburide: official US prescribing information
- DailyMed: micronized glyburide prescribing information
Sources checked 1 October 2026. This information does not replace advice from your healthcare professional. For complete warnings and instructions, read the product information and consult the prescribing team.
Reviewed by: Mattias Hagman, PhD
About the reviewer:
Dr Mattias Hagman (PhD, University of Sydney) has an academic background and experience working with healthcare-related content and regulated industries. He has lecturing experience at international universities, including Stockholm University and the University of Malta.
Last reviewed: October 2026