What is repaglinide used for? The drug helps lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes by increasing insulin production in the pancreas. High blood sugar can cause several problems, such as kidney failure, heart disease, and diabetic impotence. Repaglinide can decrease the chances of developing these problems. At this time, there are no off-label uses repaglinide is used for.
What Is Repaglinide Used For? -- An Introduction
Why Is Repaglinide Used for Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes
(see Diabetes Types). It is also sometimes called adult-onset diabetes or non-insulin-dependent diabetes. The condition involves insulin resistance. With insulin resistance, the cells of the body do not respond to insulin as well as they normally should. As a result, the cells do not take sugar out of the blood very well. This is why people with type 2 diabetes have high blood sugar.
Repaglinide is used for treating type 2 diabetes in people who cannot lower blood sugar enough through lifestyle changes (weight loss, diet, and exercise). The medication increases the production of insulin in the
pancreas. Repaglinide is designed to be taken before each meal in order to decrease blood sugar levels afterwards.
Repaglinide may need to be combined with other diabetes medicines. For example, if type 2 diabetes is untreated for a very long time, the pancreas may not be able to make enough insulin anymore. Therefore, using repaglinide alone will not be effective and an insulin medication will likely be necessary.
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