Nateglinide

Brand Name:Starlix

Prescription needed: Yes

What is this drug used for?

Nateglinide is an oral type-2 diabetes medication that can lower your overall blood sugar, also known as HbA1c, by reducing the high blood sugar levels or “spikes” that occur after you eat. It must be taken before each main meal in order to be effective. It works by triggering the release of insulin at the start of a meal which, over time can help you lower your HbA1c. These spikes are an often-overlooked problem for diabetics that if left unchecked may cause serious long-term damage to the heart and other organs.

Is there any reason not to take this drug?

You should not use this drug if you are allergic to it or to any of its ingredients. As well, do not take it unless you have type-2 diabetes. It is not an effective treatment for type-1 diabetes. Do not take nateglinide if you have diabetic ketoacidosis. Also, tell your doctor specifically if you have or have ever had problems with your liver or kidneys.

What about possible side effects?

Oral hypoglycemic drugs have been associated with increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease compared to treatment of diabetes with diet alone or diet plus insulin.

The most common side effect is hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Know your personal symptoms and treatment them accordingly. Tell your doctor of any and all side effects that you experience while taking this drug, including:

  • mild cold or flu-like symptoms
  • dizziness
  • backache
  • joint pain

In rare cases, nateglinide may also cause abnormalities in liver function tests and allergic reactions such as rash and itching. Call your doctor if you have any unusual symptoms while taking this medication.

What if I am taking other drugs?

Always provide your doctor with a list of all other drugs you are taking (including over-the-counter medications) as they may interact with another drug, increasing or decreasing effectiveness and safety of either or both. Tell your doctor specifically if you are taking any of these drugs as he may want to adjust their dosage:
  • non-steroidal and inflammatory agents (used for example to treat muscle and joint pain)
  • aspirin
  • beta blockers (used to treat high blood pressure and certain heart conditions)
  • thiazides (used to treat high blood pressure)
  • corticosteroids such as prednisone and cortisone (used to treat inflammatory disorders)
  • monoamine oxidase inhibitors (used to treat depression)
  • sympathomimetics (used to treat asthma)
  • sulfinpyrazone (used to treat gout)

Other information:

Regularly check your urine and blood sugar.

Children: Not prescribed.

Seniors: No specific problems.

Pregnant women: Not usually prescribed. Instead, your doctor may substitute insulin as it will provide tighter control. Consult your doctor as soon as you become pregnant during treatment.

Women who are nursing: Do not breast feed. Talk to your doctor.

People who drive or operate machinery: Should not do so until they know the impact this drug has on them personally. This drug may cause low blood sugar.

Overdose: Too much nateglinide can cause your blood sugar levels to drop dangerously low. Know your own symptoms of hypoglycemia and treat them quickly. If you experience any unusual reactions or if you seriously exceed the recommended dosage, call your doctor or 911.

Stopping the drug: Always talk to your doctor before you stop taking this drug. If you stop taking this medicine, you may not be able to control your blood glucose levels.

If you miss a dose: Skip the missed dose and take the next one before your next meal. Never take a double dose.

Storage conditions: Closed container; cool, dry location away from excess moisture (not in the bathroom); direct light, always out of reach of children.

Alcohol: Alcohol increases blood sugar; if you drink, always drink in moderation.

Dietary precautions: Follow your doctor’s recommendations. In order to keep your blood glucose levels in control, you need to balance your medicine with the right amount of food and exercise. Always take nateglinide before each main meal as directed by your doctor.