Product Description

Repaglinide Tablet 2 mg IP is an oral meglitinide-class antidiabetic agent for adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). It stimulates rapid, meal-related insulin secretion from pancreatic beta-cells to control postprandial hyperglycemia, used as monotherapy or adjunct to metformin/diet/exercise. The short-acting profile (onset 15–30 min, peak 1 hour, duration 3–4 hours) allows flexible dosing with meals, reducing hypo risk between doses. Prescription-only; clinical trials (e.g., repaglinide vs. sulfonylureas) show 0.5 -- 1.5% HbA1c reduction with low weight gain.

Use 

• Management of T2DM in adults to lower postprandial blood glucose when diet/exercise is insufficient

• Monotherapy or combination therapy (e.g., with metformin or thiazolidinediones) for better glycemic control (target HbA1c <7%)

• Suitable for irregular meal patterns (e.g., shift workers) due to meal-tied dosing

• Not indicated for type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), gestational diabetes, or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C)

How it works

Repaglinide is a nonsulfonylurea insulin secretagogue that targets pancreatic beta-cells for glucose-dependent insulin release:

• It binds to sulfonylurea receptor 1 (SUR1) subunits of ATP-sensitive potassium (K-ATP) channels on beta-cell membranes, closing the channels.

• This depolarizes the cell membrane, opening voltage-gated calcium channels and allowing Ca²⁺ influx, which triggers exocytosis of insulin granules.

• Action is rapid and transient (half-life ~1 hour), primarily affecting postprandial spikes without basal insulin elevation, minimizing inter-meal hypoglycemia. Hepatic metabolism via CYP3A4/CYP2C8; renal excretion of metabolites. Efficacy peaks at meals; no effect if skipped.

Benefits

• Targeted postprandial control: Reduces after-meal glucose excursions by 40–60 mg/dL (per meal tolerance tests), lowering HbA1c by 0.7–1.3% in T2DM trials, with less fasting hypo than sulfonylureas.

• Flexible dosing: Take only with meals (up to 4x/day), ideal for variable schedules—skip doses if meals are missed, enhancing adherence (80–90% in studies).

• Low long-term risks: Minimal weight gain (~1–2 kg vs. 3–5 kg with sulfonylureas); preserves beta-cell function better in early T2DM.

• Cardiovascular neutrality: No increased CV events (per meta-analyses); suitable for combo with metformin for synergistic effects without additive hypo.

Side Effects

Common side effects (mild, 5–10% incidence):

• Hypoglycemia: Shakiness, sweating, dizziness (dose-related; 10–15% users, lower than sulfonylureas)

• Gastrointestinal: Stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea

• Other: Headache, upper respiratory infection symptoms (e.g., sinusitis), joint/back pain

Less common/rare but serious side effects (seek immediate medical attention):

• Cardiovascular: Chest pain, edema (rare <1%)

• Allergic: Rash, itching, anaphylaxis

• Hepatic: Elevated enzymes (monitor in liver disease); weight gain (1–3 kg)

• Hypo risk increases with alcohol, exercise, or combo therapy—treat with 15 g fast carbs.

Safety Advice

Repaglinide should not be used in people with type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis, or severe liver dysfunction. It can interact with many other medications, including certain antibiotics, antifungals, blood thinners, and steroids. Alcohol should be avoided, as it can increase the risk of low blood sugar and a potentially serious condition called lactic acidosis. It is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so a doctor should be consulted. 

Storage Conditions

Store at a temperature below 86°F (30 °C). Protect from light and moisture.

FAQs

How do I take Repaglinide?

Take it orally, with a glass of water, about 15 to 30 minutes before each main meal. The dosage can be adjusted by your doctor based on your blood sugar levels. 

What happens if I skip a meal?

If you skip a meal, you must also skip the corresponding dose of Repaglinide. This is to prevent your blood sugar from dropping too low. 

Can I drink alcohol while taking Repaglinide?

It is not recommended to drink alcohol while on this medication, as it can interfere with its action and significantly increase your risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). 

Can I take Repaglinide if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Repaglinide is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. For pregnant women, other medications to manage blood sugar are typically preferred. For breastfeeding, there is a risk of low blood sugar in the infant. Your doctor will advise you on the best course of treatment. 

What are the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)?

• Anxiety

• Cold sweats and chills

• Dizziness

• Headache

• Blurred vision

• Nausea

• Increased hunger

• Unusual tiredness or weakness 

Can Repaglinide cause side effects?

Besides hypoglycemia, common side effects include upper respiratory tract infection, headache, joint pain, and back pain. Most side effects are minor, but if they persist or worsen, consult your doctor

Can I take Repaglinide with other antidiabetic drugs?

Repaglinide can be used alone or in combination with other oral antidiabetic drugs, such as metformin. However, it should not be taken with sulfonylureas, as both drugs work similarly. Always follow your doctor's specific guidance for combination therapy.