The effect of glimepiride lasts for about 24 hours. Glimepiride is a sulfonylurea hypoglycemic agent and is an insulinotropic agent. It is indicated for type 2 diabetes mellitus in which food, exercise therapy and weight reduction do not provide satisfactory control of blood glucose. Maximum serum concentrations are reached approximately 2 to 3 hours after oral administration, and the mean serum half-life, which is related to serum concentrations in the case of multiple dose administration, is approximately 5 to 8 hours. Side effects of glimepiride include hypoglycemia and weight gain, and it is contraindicated in type 1 diabetes mellitus, diabetic coma, ketoacidosis, severe renal or hepatic impairment, and in pregnant and lactating patients. Glimepiride should be used under the guidance of a doctor and should not be used on its own.