Indications
Prandin is a prescription medication used to treat type 2 diabetes melitus. Its active ingredient is repaglinide, which helps to lower blood sugar levels by stimulating the pancreas to produce insulin. Repaglinide belongs to a class of medications called meglitinides, which stimulate insulin release from beta cells in the pancreas.
Repaglinide works by binding to ATP-sensitive potassium channels on the beta cells, leading to depolarization of the cell membrane and subsequent opening of calcium channels. This influx of calcium ions triggers the release of insulin from the beta cells into the bloodstream, which helps to lower blood sugar levels. Repaglinide starts to work quickly, and its effects are generally short-lived, making it particularly useful in controlling blood sugar levels straight after a meal.
Prandin is typically taken before meals and acts quickly to lower blood sugar levels after eating. Prandin must be used in combination with a healthy diet and exercise regimen to effectively control blood sugar levels.
Uses and Dosage
Prandin, or repaglinide, is administered orally in tablet form and is usually prescribed to be taken 2 to 4 times daily or as directed by your physician. Take Prandin within 30 minutes prior to each meal, followed by a full glass of water. Do not take Prandin if you are skipping a meal.
To achieve optimal results, take Prandin regularly and exactly as advised by your doctor. Do not discontinue using the tablet even when you feel better to avoid complications or worsening of your condition. Follow a well-balanced diet and engage in regular exercise as recommended by your physician, as taking medication is only one aspect of managing diabetes.
The recommended dosage range for Prandin (repaglinide) is 0.5 mg to 4 mg taken with meals, with a maximum daily dose of 16 mg. The patient's dose should be doubled up to 4 mg with each meal until their blood sugar is controlled. However, the dose should not exceed 6 mg per day if co-administered with other medications that can affect blood sugar levels.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Prandin (Repaglinide):
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Joint pain
- Nausea
- Weight gain
Serious Side Effects of Prandin (Repaglinide):
- Burning in your eyes
- Confusion
- Dark colored urine
- Difficulty breathing
- Fast heart rate
- Fever
- Followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling
- High blood sugar or hyperglycemia (drowsiness, confusion, increased urination, flushing, rapid breathing, fruity breath)
- Hives
- Low blood sugar or hypoglycemia (dizziness, chills, cold sweats, palpitations, tingling sensation, hunger, fainting)
- Nausea
- Pale or yellowed skin
- Severe pain in your upper stomach spreading to your back
- Skin pain
- Sore throat
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Vomiting
- Weakness
Form and Strength
Plendil is available in the following forms and strength:
Prandin: Tablet
- 0.5 mg
- 2 mg
Repaglinide: Tablet
- 0.5 mg
- 1 mg
- 2 mg
Caution
- Do not take Prandin if you have type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease or any allergies before taking this medication.
- Patients taking Prandin may experience hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and it can be worsened by certain medications or conditions, such as fasting or strenuous exercise.
- Use of alcohol can also increase the risk of hypoglycemia while taking this medication.
- Caution should be exercised while taking Prandin if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as the effects of the medication on the infant are not known.
- Patients with impaired renal function may require dosage adjustment or close monitoring while taking this medication.
- Prandin should not be used to treat diabetic ketoacidosis and is not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age.
- Elderly patients may require lower doses of Prandin, as they may be more sensitive to the medication's effects.
- Prandin should be used with caution in patients with adrenal, pituitary, or thyroid disorders.
- Prandin may interact with other medications, such as certain antibiotics, anti-fungal medications, or MAO (monoamine oxidase) inhibitors, potentially leading to hypoglycemia or other side effects.
- Avoid consuming grapefruit or its juice while taking Prandin, as it may increase the risk of side effects.
- Prandin may cause a decrease in hemoglobin A1C levels, which may obscure the diagnosis of underlying conditions such as renal disease.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Prandin be taken with other diabetes medications?
Prandin can be taken with other diabetes medications but speak with a healthcare provider about interactions and the best treatment plan for everyone.
Can Prandin be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Do not take Prandin during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Speak with a healthcare provider about alternative treatment options for diabetes management during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Can Prandin cause low blood sugar?
Yes, Prandin can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) as a side effect. Monitor blood sugar levels carefully while taking this medication and follow a consistent meal plan to prevent low blood sugar.
How long does it take for Prandin to start working?
Prandin starts working quickly after it is taken, usually within 30 minutes, and its effects last for several hours. It is typically taken before meals to help regulate blood sugar levels after eating.
Resources
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a600010.html
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/020741s035lbl.pdf
- https://www.rxlist.com/prandin-drug.htm
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6639/prandin-oral/details
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/repaglinide-oral-route/precautions/drg-20067881?p=1
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