[Hypoglycemic and microvascular properties of gliclazide: a review of the latest international studies].

The effects of gliclazide on blood sugar levels and the micro-vascular system have been specified by the latest international studies of this antidiabetic agent presented at the 11th World Congress on Diabetes Mellitus. The potency of gliclazide is similar to that of the most effective reference agents. However, the mode of action of gliclazide, which induces an insulin release resembling physiologic conditions, explains why hypoglycemia is uncommon. Pharmacokinetic studies in the elderly have shown that gliclazide can be given to these more susceptible patients. Lastly, a number of trials, each of which was carried out against reference agents, have shown that gliclazide is valuable in delaying the course of non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy.