sulfonylurea /sul′fənilyo͝or″ē·ə/ , an oral antidiabetic agent that stimulates the pancreatic production of insulin. Hypersensitivity to sulfonamides is a contraindication for using such agents, and ethanol consumption is incompatible with all sulfonylureas. These agents cross the placenta, and their use has been associated with a higher incidence of birth defects, making insulin the preferred drug in treating diabetes in pregnancy. Aspirin or other salicylates taken with any sulfonylurea may intensify the hypoglycemic effect.
