Repaglinide: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo

Repaglinide

Rx Only

Generic NameRepaglinide

Therapeutic ClassMeglitinide Antidiabetic

Common Dose0.5–4 mg before meals

Max / 24h16 mg

PregnancyCategory C

Indications ▼

Type 2 diabetes mellitus

Adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control

Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼

Mechanism: Stimulates pancreatic beta cells to release insulin by closing ATP-sensitive potassium channels, reducing postprandial blood glucose.

Pharmacokinetics: Rapidly absorbed; peak plasma concentration in 1 hour; metabolized in liver via CYP3A4 and CYP2C8; half-life ~1 hour; excreted primarily in bile and feces.

Dosage & Administration ▼

Patient Category	Recommended Dose	Max / 24h
Adults	0.5–2 mg orally before each main meal	16 mg/day
Elderly	Start with 0.5 mg; titrate cautiously	16 mg/day
Renal Impairment	Use cautiously; monitor glucose levels	16 mg/day
Hepatic Impairment	Not recommended in severe hepatic dysfunction	16 mg/day

Note: Take immediately before meals; do not take if meal is skipped.

Side Effects ▼

Common: Hypoglycemia, headache, dizziness, nausea

Occasional: Weight gain, joint pain

Rare: Severe hypoglycemia, hepatic enzyme elevation

Contraindications ▼

Type 1 diabetes mellitus

Diabetic ketoacidosis

Hypersensitivity to repaglinide or meglitinides

Drug Interaction ▼

CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole) increase plasma levels

CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin) reduce effectiveness

Concurrent use with gemfibrozil may increase hypoglycemia risk

Pregnancy & Lactation ▼

Category C; use only if potential benefit justifies risk

Breastfeeding: safety not established; monitor infant

Clinical / Research Summary ▼

Rapid onset of action to control postprandial hyperglycemia

Effective adjunct therapy for type 2 diabetes with diet and exercise

Well-tolerated when dosed appropriately before meals

Patient Counseling Points ▼

Take immediately before meals

Do not take if skipping a meal

Monitor blood glucose regularly

Report signs of hypoglycemia promptly

Storage & Handling ▼

Store at 20–25°C

Protect from moisture and light

Keep out of reach of children

Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼

Bangladesh:

Nomopil® 1 mg Glimet® 1 mg Gluretor® 0.5 mg Gluretor® 1 mg

Global:

Prandin® Repaglinide (Generic)

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.

Reference Hubs:

• Drug Class: Meglitinides • Condition: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus • Clinical Evidence & Trials