# Glibenclamide in Nigeria

Glibenclamide has 9 active NAFDAC registrations in our October 2026 copy of the register, from 7 registration holders; 19 further listings have lapsed.

- Source: https://ogbogwu.com/drugs/glibenclamide/
- Drug class: Sulfonylurea antidiabetic (Diabetes)
- Also known as: Glyburide, Daonil, Glynase
- Prescription required: yes
- On the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines
- Last updated: October 2026

## Price in Nigeria

As of October 2026, Glibenclamide sells for about ₦20,170 online in Nigeria at HealthPlus. The online price is up 2% since July 2026. Open-market prices (e.g. Idumota, Ogbogwu) are often lower.

## What is Glibenclamide?

Glibenclamide (also known as Glyburide in some countries) is a widely used diabetes medication that belongs to the sulfonylurea class of drugs. It is one of the most commonly prescribed second-line treatments for type 2 diabetes in Nigeria, typically added when Metformin alone is not sufficient to bring blood sugar levels under control. Sold under popular brand names such as Daonil and Semi-Daonil by Sanofi, Glibenclamide works by stimulating the beta cells of the pancreas to produce and release more insulin, the hormone that moves sugar from the blood into the body's cells. It is a highly effective drug that has been used in Nigeria for decades and remains a staple in the management of type 2 diabetes.

Glibenclamide is particularly popular in Nigeria for several reasons: it is cheap, effective, and widely available. A pack of Glibenclamide tablets is among the most affordable diabetes medicines on the market. This is a significant advantage in a country where many patients pay out of pocket for their medications and where the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) covers only a fraction of the population. However, its affordability comes with a critical warning — Glibenclamide carries a significant risk of hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar), which can be life-threatening if not recognised and treated promptly. This risk is especially high in elderly patients, those who skip meals, and those with impaired kidney function.

You can find Glibenclamide in pharmacies throughout Nigeria. It is available as 2.5mg tablets (Semi-Daonil) and 5mg tablets (Daonil). A popular fixed-dose combination called Glucovance, which combines Glibenclamide with Metformin in a single tablet, is also widely available and is convenient for patients who need both medications. As a prescription-only medication, Glibenclamide should only be used under the guidance of a doctor who can monitor your blood sugar levels and adjust your dose to minimise the risk of hypoglycemia.

## What is Glibenclamide used for?

- Treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus when Metformin alone does not achieve adequate blood sugar control
- Combination therapy with Metformin for improved blood sugar management
- Type 2 diabetes management in patients who cannot tolerate Metformin
- Part of stepped care approach to type 2 diabetes as recommended by Nigerian treatment guidelines

## Dosage

Always follow a doctor's or pharmacist's instructions; this is general reference information.

- Adults: The usual starting dose is 2.5mg (half a 5mg tablet or one Semi-Daonil tablet) taken once daily with breakfast. The dose is gradually increased based on blood sugar response, usually by 2.5mg every 1-2 weeks, up to a maximum of 15mg per day. Doses above 10mg per day are usually split into two doses (morning and evening). Most patients are well controlled on 5-10mg daily. Always take Glibenclamide with meals to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia.
- Children: Glibenclamide is generally not recommended for children. Type 2 diabetes in children is uncommon in Nigeria, and when it does occur, Metformin is the preferred first-line treatment. In rare cases where Glibenclamide is considered for a child, it should only be prescribed and monitored by a paediatric endocrinologist.
- Elderly: Elderly patients are at significantly higher risk of hypoglycemia with Glibenclamide. Treatment should start at the lowest dose (2.5mg daily) and be increased very cautiously. Some guidelines recommend avoiding Glibenclamide in patients over 65 years of age and using shorter-acting sulfonylureas instead. Kidney function should be checked regularly, as age-related kidney decline can cause Glibenclamide to accumulate and increase the risk of prolonged hypoglycemia.

It is critical to eat regular meals when taking Glibenclamide. Skipping meals is one of the most common causes of hypoglycemia in patients on this drug. Always carry a source of quick-acting sugar with you (such as glucose tablets, sugar cubes, or a sweet drink) in case you develop symptoms of low blood sugar. If you are fasting (for example, during Ramadan), discuss with your doctor whether to adjust your dose or switch to a different medication. Do not take a double dose if you miss one — simply take the next dose at the usual time.

## Side effects

Common: Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) — the most important and common side effect. Symptoms include sweating, shaking, dizziness, hunger, confusion, irritability, fast heartbeat, and weakness; Weight gain (sulfonylureas stimulate insulin release, which promotes fat storage); Nausea and stomach upset; Skin rash or itching; Headache.

Serious (seek medical help immediately): Severe and prolonged hypoglycemia (can cause seizures, loss of consciousness, coma, and even death if untreated); Severe allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat, severe skin rash); Haemolytic anaemia (rare — destruction of red blood cells); Liver dysfunction (rare — yellowing of eyes or skin, dark urine, persistent nausea); Hyponatraemia (dangerously low sodium levels, rare).

When to see a doctor: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of severe hypoglycemia such as confusion, inability to eat or drink, seizures, or loss of consciousness. Someone with you should give you sugar or a sugary drink if you are conscious but confused, and call for emergency help immediately. Also see a doctor if you develop yellowing of your eyes or skin, unexplained bruising or bleeding, severe skin rash, or persistent stomach problems. If you are having frequent episodes of mild hypoglycemia (more than twice a week), contact your doctor as your dose may need to be reduced.

## Warnings

Do not take if: Type 1 diabetes mellitus (Glibenclamide only works if the pancreas can still produce some insulin); Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) — use insulin instead; Severe kidney disease or kidney failure; Severe liver disease or liver failure; Known allergy to Glibenclamide, other sulfonylureas, or sulfonamide antibiotics (there may be cross-sensitivity); Pregnancy (Glibenclamide crosses the placenta and can cause dangerous hypoglycemia in the newborn); During major surgery or severe illness (switch to insulin for better blood sugar control).

Interactions: Metformin — commonly used together, but the combination increases the risk of hypoglycemia compared to Metformin alone; Alcohol — significantly increases the risk of hypoglycemia and may cause flushing, nausea, and vomiting (disulfiram-like reaction); NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, diclofenac) — may enhance the blood sugar lowering effect and increase hypoglycemia risk; Fluconazole and miconazole (antifungal drugs) — can significantly increase Glibenclamide blood levels and cause hypoglycemia; Ciprofloxacin and other fluoroquinolone antibiotics — may cause unpredictable changes in blood sugar; Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol, atenolol) — can mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia, making it harder to recognise; Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisolone) — raise blood sugar and may reduce Glibenclamide's effectiveness; Warfarin — Glibenclamide may enhance the blood-thinning effect of warfarin.

Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Glibenclamide is NOT recommended during pregnancy. It crosses the placenta and can stimulate the baby's pancreas to produce excess insulin, leading to dangerous hypoglycemia in the newborn (neonatal hypoglycemia). Women with type 2 diabetes who are planning to become pregnant or who discover they are pregnant while taking Glibenclamide should be switched to insulin, which is the preferred treatment for diabetes in pregnancy. Glibenclamide also passes into breast milk and may cause hypoglycemia in the nursing infant. Women who are breastfeeding should discuss alternative diabetes medications with their doctor. Insulin or Metformin are generally preferred during breastfeeding.

## Brands in Nigeria

Well-known NAFDAC-registered brands: Daonil (Sanofi, made in France); Semi-Daonil (Sanofi, made in France); Glucovance (Merck, made in France).
Full searchable brand list: https://ogbogwu.com/drugs/glibenclamide/brands/

## How to verify it is genuine

1. Check for the NAFDAC registration number on the pack. All genuine glibenclamide products sold in Nigeria must carry a valid NAFDAC registration number. You can verify this number on the NAFDAC website or by visiting a NAFDAC office.
2. Look for the Mobile Authentication Service (MAS) scratch code on the pack. Scratch the silver panel and text the code to the number provided to confirm the product is genuine.
3. Buy only from licensed and registered pharmacies. Do not purchase diabetes medications from open markets, roadside vendors, or unregistered shops. Counterfeit diabetes drugs may contain no active ingredient, the wrong dose, or harmful substances.
4. Check the packaging for clear printing, batch number, manufacturing date, and expiry date. Genuine Daonil tablets are white, round, and have a score line. If the tablets look different from what you normally use, consult your pharmacist before taking them.
5. Store Glibenclamide at room temperature (below 30 degrees Celsius) in a cool, dry place. Keep out of reach of children — accidental ingestion of Glibenclamide by a child can cause severe, life-threatening hypoglycemia.

Verify any NAFDAC number free (no login): https://ogbogwu.com/nafdac-checker/

## FAQs

### What should I do if I have a hypoglycemia episode while taking Glibenclamide?

If you experience symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) such as sweating, shaking, dizziness, hunger, confusion, or fast heartbeat, act immediately. If you are conscious and able to swallow, take 15-20 grams of quick-acting sugar — this can be 3-4 glucose tablets, 3-4 cubes of sugar dissolved in water, half a glass of a regular (non-diet) soft drink, or a tablespoon of honey. Wait 15 minutes and check if your symptoms improve. If they do not improve, repeat the sugar intake. Once you feel better, eat a proper meal or snack to prevent your blood sugar from dropping again. If you lose consciousness or are unable to swallow, someone with you should NOT try to put food or liquid in your mouth (choking risk). They should place you on your side and call for emergency medical help immediately. Severe hypoglycemia is a medical emergency.

### Can I take Glibenclamide together with Metformin?

Yes, Glibenclamide and Metformin are very commonly used together in Nigeria and this combination is recommended by treatment guidelines when Metformin alone is not enough to control blood sugar. The two drugs work through different mechanisms — Metformin reduces liver glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity, while Glibenclamide stimulates the pancreas to release more insulin — so they complement each other well. There is even a fixed-dose combination tablet called Glucovance (manufactured by Merck) that contains both drugs in one pill, available in 2.5mg/500mg and 5mg/500mg strengths, for greater convenience. However, the combination does increase the risk of hypoglycemia compared to Metformin alone, so regular blood sugar monitoring is important. Your doctor will determine the right doses of each drug for you.

### Is Glibenclamide safe for elderly patients?

Glibenclamide requires extra caution in elderly patients (generally those over 65 years old). Older adults are at significantly higher risk of hypoglycemia because they may have reduced kidney function (which slows down the clearance of the drug from the body), they may eat irregularly, and they may not recognise the early warning signs of low blood sugar as easily. Prolonged and severe hypoglycemia in the elderly can lead to falls, fractures, confusion mimicking dementia, and even stroke-like symptoms. For these reasons, many doctors in Nigeria prefer to use lower doses of Glibenclamide in elderly patients, or they may choose a shorter-acting sulfonylurea such as gliclazide, which carries a lower risk of hypoglycemia. If you are an elderly patient taking Glibenclamide, make sure to eat regular meals, monitor your blood sugar frequently, and report any episodes of dizziness, confusion, or sweating to your doctor.

## Sources

- NAFDAC Greenbook (official register of approved products in Nigeria)
- WHO Model List of Essential Medicines
- British National Formulary (BNF)
- Nigerian Standard Treatment Guidelines (Federal Ministry of Health)