Gliclazide is a commonly prescribed medicine in the UK, used for type 2 diabetes. If you have just been prescribed gliclazide, this page explains what it is, the brands and strengths it comes in, how to take it, and how to have it dispensed and delivered free on the NHS with PillSorted.
This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: 14 July 2026.
What is gliclazide?
Gliclazide is a sulfonylurea used for type 2 diabetes. It lowers blood sugar by helping your body release more insulin.
Brands and strengths
Gliclazide is the name of the active ingredient. In the UK it is sold as generic gliclazide and under brand names including Diamicron, Bilxona and Nazdol — all contain the same active ingredient and work the same way. Common strengths:
- Gliclazide 40 mg tablets
- Gliclazide 80 mg tablets
- Gliclazide 30 mg (MR)
- UK brands: Diamicron, Bilxona and Nazdol
What gliclazide is used for
- Type 2 diabetes
How to take gliclazide
Usually taken with breakfast (and sometimes the evening meal), or once daily for the modified-release form. Because it can lower blood sugar, know the signs of a hypo. Always follow your prescriber’s instructions (BNF).
Side effects
The main risk is low blood sugar (hypo) — shakiness, sweating, hunger. It can also cause weight gain. Follow your prescriber’s advice on monitoring. This is not a full list — see the patient information leaflet (BNF).
Gliclazide: frequently asked questions
Yes. Diamicron is a brand name for gliclazide; the generic is the same active ingredient.
Yes — unlike metformin, gliclazide can cause hypos. Learn the warning signs and carry a fast-acting sugar.
Yes. If you have an NHS prescription for gliclazide, you can nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy and we will dispense and deliver it to your door for free.
Get your gliclazide delivered free on the NHS
If you have an NHS prescription for gliclazide, PillSorted dispenses and delivers it to your door — completely free. Nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy once, and we take care of your repeat prescriptions from then on.
What you get
- Free delivery, every time — your medicine posted to your door, always free.
- Your whole family, one account — manage everyone’s prescriptions in one place.
- Real pharmacists, every prescription — every order checked by our UK pharmacist team.
How it works
- Choose PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy
- We collect your prescription from your GP
- Your medication is delivered free to your door
Sources: NICE; BNF — Gliclazide.
This page is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice from your GP or pharmacist. Always take your medicine exactly as prescribed. For advice about your own health, consult a clinician.