Tolbutamide is a first generation potassium channel blocker , sulfonylurea oral hypoglycemic drug sold under the brand name Orinase . This drug may be used in the management of type II diabetes if diet alone is not effective. more

Tolbutamide is a first generation potassium channel blocker , sulfonylurea oral hypoglycemic drug sold under the brand name Orinase . This drug may be used in the management of type II diabetes if diet alone is not effective. Tolbutamide stimulates the secretion of insulin by the pancreas . Since the pancreas must synthesize insulin in order for this drug to work, it is not effective in the management of type I diabetes . It is not routinely used due to a higher incidence of adverse effects compared to newer second generation sulfonylureas, such as glyburide . less