Lowers blood glucose by stimulating release of insulin from pancreas.
Action depends on functioning beta cells in pancreatic islets.
Blockade of potassium channel depolarizes beta cell which leads to opening of calcium channels. This causes calcium influx which induces insulin secretion. Rapidly and completely absorbed from GI tract. Completely metabolized in liver with most excreted in feces. In combination with metformin to lower blood glucose where hyperglycemia can not be controlled by exercise, diet, or either drug alone.