Meglitinides
- Meglitinides are used in the treatment of diabetes type 2
- Drug names: Repaglinide (Prandin), Nateglinide (Starlix)
- Binds to ATP sensitive potassium channels in Beta cells to increase insulin release
- Meglitinides are structurally different from Sulfonylureas
- Lowers A1C 0.5-1%
- Plasma levels of insulin peak 30-60 min after each dose
- Quick onset & short duration
- Excreted in urine
- Good drugs for patients that skip meals
- Very expensive
- Patient must take with meals
- Use with caution in patients with severe liver disease
Common Side Effects
- Hypoglycemia
- Weight gain
References
Edmunds, M. W., & Mayhew, M. S. (2014). Pharmacology for the primary care provider (4th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.
Harvey, R. A., Clark, M. A., Finkel, R., Rey, J. A., & Whalen, K. (2012). Pharmacology (5th ed.). Baltimore, MD: Lippincott.