Extrapancreatic Benefits and Pleiotropic Effects of Glimepiride: Value-Added Effects for Therapeutic Preference in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Glimepiride is a third-generation sulfonylurea (SU), which is a potential glucoselowering agent. It is widely used as monotherapy as well as combination therapy in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Because of its safety, higher efficacy and low hypoglycemia potential, glimepiride is a preferred oral antidiabetic drug versus other SUs. Glimepiride has several extrapancreatic and pleiotropic benefits, which include insulin-sensitizing properties and anti-inflammatory, antioxidative and angiogenic effects. Additionally, the cardiovascular-neutral outcome of glimepiride makes it a preferred drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with cardiovascular disease or at risk. Here we will discuss various valueadded extrapancreatic and pleiotropic benefits of glimepiride.