The sulphonylurea with relative longer duration of action is:
## Core Concept
The question tests knowledge of pharmacology, specifically the properties of sulphonylureas, a class of medications used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus. Sulphonylureas work by stimulating insulin release from the pancreatic beta cells. They vary in their duration of action, which influences their dosing frequency and potential for hypoglycemia.
## Why the Correct Answer is Right
Glibenclamide (also known as glyburide) is known for its long duration of action among sulphonylureas. This characteristic allows for twice-daily dosing, which can help in managing blood glucose levels over a longer period. Glibenclamide acts by closing ATP-sensitive potassium channels in the pancreatic beta-cell membrane, leading to cell depolarization, opening of calcium channels, and ultimately insulin release.
## Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect
- **Option A:** This option is not specified, but if we consider common sulphonylureas like glipizide or gliclazide, they have relatively shorter durations of action compared to glibenclamide.
- **Option B:** Similarly, without a specific name, it's hard to directly refute, but generally, first-generation sulphonylureas like chlorpropamide have a longer duration of action but are less commonly used today due to side effects.
- **Option C:** This option is also unspecified but considering typical sulphonylureas, those with shorter durations of action (like glipizide) require more frequent dosing.
## Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact
A key point to remember is that glibenclamide (glyburide) has a higher risk of causing hypoglycemia due to its long duration of action and its active metabolites. It's also noteworthy that glibenclamide is not suitable for patients with renal impairment due to the risk of accumulation and increased risk of hypoglycemia.
## Correct Answer Line
**Correct Answer: C. Glibenclamide.**