Nateglinide
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Glinide
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Nateglinide
Summary
Nateglinide is used to manage type 2 diabetes in adults. It helps regulate blood sugar levels and is used alongside diet and exercise.
Nateglinide works by stimulating the pancreas to release insulin, which lowers blood glucose levels. Its action is glucose-dependent, meaning it diminishes at low glucose levels.
The usual dose for adults is 120 mg taken orally three times daily before meals. For patients near their glycemic goal, a dose of 60 mg three times daily may be used.
Common side effects of Nateglinide include upper respiratory infection, back pain, flu symptoms, dizziness, and diarrhea. Serious adverse effects include hypoglycemia, which can be life-threatening if not managed properly.
Nateglinide is not recommended for children or for patients with type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis, or hypersensitivity to the drug. It can cause hypoglycemia, especially if meals are skipped. It is also not recommended while breastfeeding due to the potential for hypoglycemia in breastfed infants.
Indications and Purpose
How does Nateglinide work?
Nateglinide works by stimulating the pancreas to release insulin, which helps lower blood glucose levels. It interacts with the ATP-sensitive potassium channels on pancreatic beta-cells, leading to insulin secretion. This action is glucose-dependent, meaning it diminishes at low glucose levels, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia.
Is Nateglinide effective?
Clinical studies have shown that Nateglinide effectively reduces HbA1c and fasting plasma glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. In a 24-week study, Nateglinide significantly reduced HbA1c and fasting plasma glucose compared to placebo. It has also been shown to be effective when used in combination with other diabetes medications like metformin.
What is Nateglinide?
Nateglinide is used to manage type 2 diabetes by helping control blood sugar levels. It works by stimulating the pancreas to release insulin, which lowers blood glucose. Nateglinide is typically taken before meals and is part of a comprehensive diabetes management plan that includes diet and exercise.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Nateglinide?
Nateglinide is used as a long-term treatment for managing type 2 diabetes. It is typically taken continuously as part of a diabetes management plan that includes diet and exercise. The duration of use is determined by your doctor based on your individual health needs and response to the medication.
How do I take Nateglinide?
Take Nateglinide orally 1 to 30 minutes before meals. If you skip a meal, skip the dose. If you add a meal, add a dose. Follow your doctor's dietary recommendations, and be cautious with alcohol as it can affect blood sugar levels. There are no specific food restrictions, but maintaining a healthy diet is important.
How long does it take for Nateglinide to start working?
Nateglinide begins to stimulate insulin secretion within 20 minutes of oral administration. When taken before meals, the peak rise in plasma insulin occurs approximately 1 hour after dosing, helping to control blood sugar levels during and after meals.
How should I store Nateglinide?
Store Nateglinide in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom. Dispose of unneeded medication through a take-back program to prevent accidental ingestion by children or pets.
What is the usual dose of Nateglinide?
For adults, the usual dose of Nateglinide is 120 mg taken orally three times daily before meals. For patients who are near their glycemic goal when treatment is initiated, a lower dose of 60 mg three times daily may be recommended. Nateglinide is not recommended for use in children as its safety and effectiveness have not been established in pediatric patients.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Nateglinide with other prescription drugs?
Nateglinide can interact with several drugs, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Drugs that may increase its blood-glucose-lowering effect include NSAIDs, salicylates, and certain beta-blockers. Drugs that may reduce its effect include thiazides, corticosteroids, and thyroid products. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Can Nateglinide be taken safely while breastfeeding?
There is no data on the presence of Nateglinide in human milk, but it is present in animal milk. Due to the potential for hypoglycemia in breastfed infants, the use of Nateglinide is not recommended while breastfeeding. Consult your doctor for alternative treatment options if you are breastfeeding.
Can Nateglinide be taken safely while pregnant?
There is insufficient data from human studies to determine the risk of fetal harm with Nateglinide use during pregnancy. It should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Poorly controlled diabetes in pregnancy poses risks to both mother and fetus, so consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Nateglinide?
Drinking alcohol while taking Nateglinide can affect blood sugar levels. Alcohol may cause a decrease in blood sugar, which can increase the risk of hypoglycemia. It is important to discuss the safe use of alcoholic beverages with your doctor while taking Nateglinide to avoid any adverse effects on your blood sugar control.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Nateglinide?
Nateglinide does not inherently limit the ability to exercise. However, exercise can affect blood sugar levels, and since Nateglinide lowers blood sugar, it's important to monitor your levels closely. If you experience symptoms of low blood sugar, such as shakiness or dizziness, during exercise, you should stop and check your blood sugar. Consult your doctor for personalized advice on managing exercise while taking Nateglinide.
Is Nateglinide safe for the elderly?
In clinical studies, no significant differences in safety or efficacy were observed between elderly patients and younger patients. However, greater sensitivity in some older individuals cannot be ruled out. Elderly patients should use Nateglinide with caution, and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is recommended to prevent hypoglycemia.
Who should avoid taking Nateglinide?
Nateglinide is contraindicated in patients with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. It can cause hypoglycemia, which may be severe. Patients should be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar and how to manage them. Nateglinide should be used with caution in patients with liver or pituitary disease, adrenal insufficiency, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
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