Prandin

The active ingredient in Prandin is repaglinide. Repaglinide is a meglitinide and a short-acting insulin secretagogue.

Its mechanism of action involves stimulating the pancreas to increase insulin levels. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body use sugar for energy. This insulin release helps to reduce the quantity of sugar in your blood.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Prandin. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Prandin:

• Prandin is often taken two to four times a day, 30 minutes before a meal. Follow your doctor's directions. If you skip a meal, don't take your Prandin. Wait for your next meal.
• Your blood sugar will need to be tested frequently, and you may require further blood tests at your doctor's office. This includes a test called HbA1C (A1C). This blood test measures your blood sugar control over the past 2 to 3 months.
• You could have low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) while taking this medication. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include feeling extremely hungry, dizzy, angry, confused, worried, or shaky. To correct hypoglycemia quickly, eat or drink something with a high sugar content.
• If you suffer from severe hypoglycemia, your doctor may prescribe a glucagon injection kit. Make sure your family or close friends know how to administer this injection in an emergency.
• Look for indicators of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), such as increased thirst or urine.
• Stress, illness, surgery, exercise, alcohol consumption, and skipping meals all have an impact on blood sugar levels. Consult your doctor before changing your dose or drug schedule.

Some mild and common side effects of repaglinide seen in clinical trials include:

• Low blood sugar.
• Upper respiratory infection.
• Headaches.
• Sinus infection.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Back pain and chest pain.
• Weight gain.
• Indigestion.
• Joint pain.
• Diarrhea.
• Constipation.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Prandin. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Severely low blood sugar: shakiness, rapid heartbeat, perspiration, dizziness, anxiety, confusion, and intense hunger.
• Severe, life-threatening allergic reaction: swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, hives, or skin rash.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Prandin. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Prandin, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

• Severe liver disease.
• Diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Type 1 diabetes.
• Kidney disease.

• Taking gemfibrozil (Lopid).
• Known hypersensitivity to the drug or inactive ingredients.
• Diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Type I diabetes mellitus.

Repaglinide works quickly, usually within 30 to 60 minutes of taking a dose. That is why it should be taken 30 minutes before a meal.

When Prandin is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Clopidogrel.
• Cyclosporine.
• Gemfibrozil.
• NPH Insulin (isophane insulin).
• Metformin or other diabetes medications.
• Clarithromycin.
• Glipizide.
• Thiazolidinedione.

Pradin is available in the following dosage forms and strengths: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg tablets.

The normal dose is 0.5 mg to 4 mg by mouth, 30 minutes before each mealtime. The maximum daily dose is 16 mg. Double the dose up to 4 mg with each meal until acceptable glycemic control is obtained.

If you are taking drugs that interact with repaglinide, your dose may vary. If you skip a meal, skip the missed dose and wait until your next meal.

Store at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Novo Nordisk Inc. is the company that manufactures this medication.

There are several lower-cost generic versions of Prandin available.

Prandin (repaglinide) helps regulate blood sugar in type 2 diabetes; thus, you should not stop taking it abruptly without your doctor's approval. Stopping on your own may cause your blood sugar to rise rapidly, leading to complications. If Prandin must be discontinued, your doctor will typically replace it with another diabetes medicine or gradually change your treatment plan while continuously monitoring your blood sugar levels. Always consult with your healthcare provider before changing your dose or discontinuing medication.

If you are or become pregnant, follow your doctor's instructions for using Prandin. Controlling diabetes is critical during pregnancy because excessive blood sugar levels can create difficulties for both the mother and the baby.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.