The Sound of Evolution
Glipizide
Mechanism of action:
Glipizide is a second-generation sulfonylurea derivative. Glipizide binds to and inhibits sulfonylurea receptor 1 (SUR1) on the membrane of pancreatic β cells. This receptor is the regulatory subunit of the ATP-sensitive potassium channel. Once inhibited by glipizide, potassium efflux decreases and the cell membrane undergoes depolarization. This depolarization opens calcium channels, increases calcium influx, and stimulates insulin release.
Reference(s):
1. Melander A et al. (1983). Clinical pharmacology of glipizide. Am J Med.
2. Skillman TG et al. (1981). The pharmacology of sulfonylureas. Am J Med.
3. Quianzon CC et al. (2012). History of current non-insulin medications for diabetes mellitus. J Community Hosp Intern Med Perspect.