Gliclazide: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Gliclazide is a sulfonylurea that helps the pancreas release insulin. It belongs to the Oral diabetes medicine group. These help control blood sugar in type 2 diabetes through different mechanisms.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Oral diabetes medicine
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Type 2 diabetes
Used with diet and exercise
Often combined with metformin or other diabetes medicines

Common brand names

India: Diamicron, Glizid, Reclide
Worldwide: Diamicron

Common side effects

Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)
Weight gain
Upset stomach

Before taking it — precautions

Take with a meal and do not skip meals
Older people and those with kidney or liver disease are more prone to low sugar
Alcohol and some medicines can increase low-sugar risk — tell your doctor what you take

When to see a doctor urgently

Shaking, sweating, confusion or fainting (low sugar — take sugar and get help)
Yellow eyes or skin
Severe rash or swelling of the face (rare — urgent)

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of gliclazide depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Can gliclazide cause low blood sugar?

Yes — it makes the pancreas release more insulin. Keep glucose or sugar with you and learn the warning signs.

Should I take gliclazide if I skip a meal?

Skipping a meal raises the risk of low sugar. Ask your doctor what to do on fasting days.

Will gliclazide make me gain weight?

Some weight gain can happen. Diet and activity help; your doctor may choose another medicine if it is a problem.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.