Mechanism of action: bind to ATP-sensitive potassium-channel receptors on the pancreatic cell surface, thereby reducing potassium conductance and depolarizing the membrane. Depolarization stimulates calcium ion influx through voltage-sensitive calcium channels, raising intracellular concentrations of calcium ions, which induces the secretion, or exocytosis, of insulin.

Major side effects: gastrointestinal discomforts: nausea/vomiting, anorexia, flatulence, constipation, and diarrhea, but generally well tolerated.

SULFONYLUREAS	Brand Names	Drug Interaction	Contraindication	Dosage	Costs per Month
First Generation Tolbutamide	Orinase	Sulfonyureas Pheylbutazone Oxyphenbutazone MOA Inhibitors Anabolic steroids B-blockers	Renal glycosuria Liver disease	1-2g qd	250mg tid: $10.00 - 19.99 1g qd: $10.00 - 19.99 2g qd: $30.00 - 39.99
Chlorpropamide	Diabinese	NSAIDS, Salicylates Sulfonamides Chloramphennicol MOA Inhibitors Coumadins	Hypersensitivity ketoacidoses	250mg qd	100mg qd: $5.00 - 9.99 250mg qd: $10.00 - 19.99
Second Generation Glyburide	Diabeta	Same as Diabenese	Same as Diabenese	2.5mg qd	2.5mg tid: $10.00 - 19.99
Glipizide	Glucotrol	Same as Diabenese	Same as Diabenese	5mg qd	5mg qd: $5.00 - 10.99