Evolution of tolbutamide in the treatment of diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Diabetes Mellitus is becoming fast growing epidemic all over the world. Despite several oral drugs available in the market, the most traditional as well as the most popular of them all are tolbutamide. tolbutamides have been a foundation for maintaining glucose levels in type II diabetes. Although having many side effects, this class of compounds is still being used as the second-line recommended choice of oral glucose-lowering treatment after metformin. In the present review, various stages involved in the development of these drugs have been discussed through important case studies. The mode of action of tolbutamide in biological system has been reviewed. Comparison of commercially available tolbutamide has been made while discussing their chemical synthesis and metabolism inside gastrointestinal tract.