Gliclizide doesn't need food to work. It solely increases the production of insulin from the pancreas.
So it will eventually keep your bgs down but not necessarily after food consumption. Spikes still occur and the risk of hypos are there due to insulin.
Your team need to explain why this is OK for you and your diabetes.
Myself; gliclizide stopped working at all. My bgs were near and into 30s after eating. I was having side affects from high bgs. I was put on mixed insulin as not even metformin did anything. I was having a diabetic burn out.
On preparing for an op I was swopped to separate insulins for better control which was to aid my weight loss and stop so many units of insulin needed. I need over 300units of insulin per day. With Toujeo300 basal (like your insulatard) I rely on basal to steady my bgs through the day and night, even with or without food. Otherwise I'd still be in 30s.
What reduces my novarapid units is low carb food. Hence why I only need 60units per day. I'd like to stop it.
I think my basal need is hugely due to my weight and immobility.... and stress.
I'm looking to have bariatric surgery this year to reduce my morbidly obese body. This should help with a few of my ill health side affects.