Which oral hypoglycemic agent is associated with the highest risk of prolonged hypoglycemia in elderly patients and those with irregular dietary habits, necessitating caution?
- A Glibenclamide (glyburide) ✓
- B Metformin
- C Pioglitazone
- D Empagliflozin
Correct answer: A. Glibenclamide (glyburide)
Explanation
Glibenclamide is a long-acting sulfonylurea with active metabolites and a prolonged duration of action, making it the sulfonylurea most associated with severe, prolonged hypoglycemia. Metformin, pioglitazone, and SGLT2 inhibitors as monotherapy carry minimal hypoglycemia risk. Indian exam convention highlights glibenclamide's hypoglycemia risk compared to shorter-acting sulfonylureas like gliclazide.
Reference: Katzung Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 15th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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