Nateglinide

Nateglinide is used to control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It works by causing the pancreas to make more insulin after meals. The medication comes in tablet form, and can be taken up to half an hour before meals. Potential side effects include low blood sugar, dizziness, and flu-like symptoms; however, most people tolerate it quite well.

What Is Nateglinide?

Nateglinide (Starlix®) is a prescription medication that is used to treat type 2 diabetes (also known as noninsulin-dependent diabetes or adult-onset diabetes).
 
(Click What Is Nateglinide Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Nateglinide?

Nateglinide is manufactured by Novartis Pharmaceuticals.
 

How Does It Work?

Nateglinide is part of a group of diabetes medications called meglitinides. These drugs help the pancreas make more insulin, which helps to lower blood sugar. Another type of diabetes medication, called sulfonylureas (see Starlix Alternatives), also helps the pancreas make more insulin. However, unlike sulfonylureas, nateglinide is short-acting and is used to lower blood sugar levels after meals.
 

Clinical Effects

Several studies have looked at the effects of nateglinide, particularly with regard to hemoglobin A1c and fasting blood sugar.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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