What it is used for
- Type 2 diabetes (to control the rise in blood sugar around meals)
How it works
Repaglinide prompts the pancreas to release a quick burst of insulin around mealtimes, helping control the rise in blood sugar after eating. It works fast and for a short time.
How it is taken
Available as tablets taken by mouth shortly before meals. A key rule is: take it with a meal, skip it if you skip the meal. Take it exactly as your doctor, pharmacist, or the label directs.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)
- Weight gain
- Headache
- Stomach upset or diarrhoea
Serious effects — get help
- Severe low blood sugar with confusion, seizures, or unconsciousness — seek emergency care
- Signs of liver problems (yellow skin or eyes, dark urine)
- Serious allergic reaction (uncommon)
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Other diabetes medicines and insulin (added low-blood-sugar risk)
- Some medicines that affect liver enzymes (certain antibiotics, antifungals, and others) can raise or lower its effect
- Gemfibrozil (a cholesterol medicine) should not be combined with it
- Alcohol (worsens low blood sugar)
Who should take care
- Because it acts around meals, do not take a dose if you are skipping that meal
- Use with caution in liver problems
- Carry a fast-acting sugar source for low blood sugar
- Discuss pregnancy and breastfeeding with your clinician
- Tell your doctor about all other medicines, as several interact