An evaluation of the effects of some sulphonylureas on platelet function

The effect of the sulphonylureas gliclazide (S 852) and glibenese on platelet function, blood lipid levels and the control of diabetes, was prospectively evaluated in 12 maturity-onset diabetic subjects by means of a double-blind crossover study. Including the pretrial period, platelet aggregation in response to collagen was uniformly lower than in matched normal controls, but neither drug produced any additional effect on platelet function. Control of blood glucose levels was no better than with comparable agents, and no measurable changes occurred in blood lipid levels. The drugs had no significant side-effects and were well tolerated. It is concluded that neither agent offers special advantages over other sulphonylureas, particularly in regard to platelet function.