What difference is there between glyburide and glimepiride medications?

Same family: Hi. Glyburide is a second generation sulfonylurea and glimepiride is a 3rd generation. They work at the same receptors on the beta cell (the pancreatic cells that make insulin) and stimulate insulin release. Glimepiride is preferable because of less metabolite build up in kidney disease, but they're VERY similar. I never use them. In my opinion, based on good science, we have much better drugs.

Diabetes: Either glyburide or glimepiride can be prescribed for management of diabetes. There may be a cost difference in your favor or you doctor may have a good reason to prescribe one or the other. More important - you need to take control of your eating habits, your weight (if overweight), and your exercise. Also please remember to measure your blood sugar regularly. Your doctor will advise you on dose