Generic for Glimepiride: An Overview
Glimepiride (
Amaryl®) is a prescription medication that has been licensed to treat
type 2 diabetes (also known as adult-onset
diabetes or noninsulin dependent diabetes). Glimepiride is part of a class of
diabetes medications known as sulfonylureas. A sulfonylurea, such as glimepiride, helps the
pancreas to produce more
insulin. It also helps the cells of the body to respond better to insulin. As a result, blood sugar levels decrease.
Brand-name Amaryl was first manufactured by Aventis Pharmaceuticals (now known as sanofi-aventis). However, it has since come off patent and is available as a generic.
Strengths of Generic Glimepiride
Generic Amaryl is sold under the name Glimepiride tablets. Interestingly, generic glimepiride is available in more strengths than the brand-name Amaryl. Brand-name Amaryl is available in only three strengths (1, 2, and 4 mg), while generic glimepiride is available in the following strengths:
- Glimepiride 1 mg tablets
- Glimepiride 2 mg tablets
- Glimepiride 3 mg tablets
- Glimepiride 4 mg tablets
- Glimepiride 6 mg tablets
- Glimepiride 8 mg tablets.
Who Makes Generic Glimepiride?
Generic glimepiride is made by more than 10 different companies, including Teva Pharmaceuticals, Mylan Laboratories, and Ranbaxy, Inc. For more information, ask your pharmacist about the different manufacturers of generic glimepiride.
