Prandin (Repaglinide) helps to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. Treatment is combined with a balanced diet and suitable exercise. Repaglinide increases the amount of insulin released from the pancreas, which helps to control blood sugar.
What should I tell my doctorr before I take Prandin?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
kidney disease
liver disease
severe infection or injury
an unusual or allergic reaction to repaglinide or other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I take Prandin?
Take Prandin orally. Follow the directions on the prescription. Swallow Prandin with a drink of water. The dose should be taken no earlier than 30 minutes before every meal. If a meal is added, take a tablet before that meal. Do not take more often than directed or without a meal.
Contact your pediatrician regarding the use of Prandin in children. Special care may be needed.
Elderly patients over 65 years old may have a stronger reaction and need a smaller dose.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose before a meal, skip that dose. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose with the next scheduled meal as directed. Do not take double or extra doses.
What drugs may interact with repaglinide?
barbiturates like phenobarbital or primidone
carbamazepine
erythromycin
ketoconazole
miconazole
montelukast
other medicines for diabetes
rifampin
Many medications may cause changes (increase or decrease) in blood sugar, these include:
alcohol containing beverages
aspirin and aspirin-like drugs
beta-blockers, often used for high blood pressure or heart problems (examples include atenolol, metoprolol, propranolol)
chromium
female hormones, such as estrogens, progestins, or contraceptive pills
isoniazid
male hormones or anabolic steroids
medications to suppress appetite or for weight loss
medicines for allergies, asthma, cold, or cough
niacin
pentamidine
phenytoin
some herbal dietary supplements
steroid medicines such as prednisone or cortisone
thyroid hormones
water pills (diuretics)
Tell your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines. Also tell your doctor if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking repaglinide?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor as soon as possible:
breathing difficulties, severe skin reactions or excessive phlegm, which may indicate that you are having an allergic reaction to the drug
dark yellow or brown urine, or yellowing of the eyes or skin, indicating that the drug is affecting your liver
fever, chills, sore throat; which means the drug may be affecting your immune system
unusual bleeding or bruising; which occurs when the drug is affecting your blood clotting system
vomiting
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor if they continue or are bothersome):
headache
nausea
What should I watch for while taking Prandin?
Visit your doctor for regular checks on your progress. Learn how to monitor your blood sugar. Check with your doctor if your blood sugar is high, you may need a change of dose of repaglinide.
Do not skip meals. If you are exercising much more than usual you may need extra snacks to avoid side effects caused by low blood sugar. Alcohol can increase possible side effects of repaglinide. Ask your doctor if you should avoid alcohol. If you have mild symptoms of low blood sugar, eat or drink something containing sugar at once and contact your doctor. It is wise to check your blood sugar to confirm that it is low. It is important to recognize your own symptoms of low blood sugar so that you can treat them quickly. Make sure family members know that you can choke if you eat or drink when you develop serious symptoms of low blood sugar, such as seizures or unconsciousness. They must get medical help at once.
If you are going to have surgery, tell your doctor that you are taking Prandin.
Wear a medical identification bracelet or chain to say you have diabetes, and carry a card that lists all your medications.
Where can I keep Prandin?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open. Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
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