Repaglinide

Repaglinide is used to help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It causes the pancreas to make more insulin in order to lower blood sugar levels after meals. The medication, which comes in tablet form, is typically taken up to half an hour before each meal. Potential side effects of repaglinide include headaches, low blood sugar levels, and upper respiratory tract infections.

 

What Is Repaglinide?

Repaglinide (Prandin®) is a prescription medication that is used to treat type 2 diabetes (also known as non-insulin-dependent diabetes or adult-onset diabetes).
 
(Click What Is Repaglinide Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Repaglinide?

Repaglinide is manufactured by Novo Nordisk, Inc.
 

How Does Repaglinide Work?

Repaglinide is part of a group of diabetes medications called meglitinides. Meglitinides help the pancreas make more insulin, which helps to lower blood sugar. Another type of diabetes medication, called sulfonylureas, also helps the pancreas make more insulin. However, unlike sulfonylureas, repaglinide is short-acting and is used to lower blood sugar after meals.
 

Effects of Repaglinide

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