Indications 

Prandin is a prescribed medication used alongside diet and exercise to enhance glycemic control in adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus. 

Classified as a meglitinide drug, Prandin helps lower blood glucose levels by triggering the pancreas to release insulin (a natural substance in the body that enables proper utilization of dietary sugar). 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Prandin and with every prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Consult your physician or pharmacist if you have any uncertainties. 

Prandin’s dosage may vary per individual based on their medical condition, treatment response, and concurrent medication usage.  

Carefully follow your doctor’s instructions when transitioning from a different diabetes medication (e.g., chlorpropamide) to Prandin. 

This medication does not follow a specific fixed dosage regimen. Typically, it is taken 2 to 4 times daily, within 30 minutes before eating a meal. If a meal is skipped, Prandin dose should be withheld until the next meal. In the case of an additional meal, an extra dose of Prandin is required. 

To maximize the benefits of this medication, adhere to your doctor’s instructions and use it regularly. Follow the prescribed medication regimen, meal plan, and exercise program as recommended by your doctor. 

Regularly monitor and share blood sugar levels with your doctor to determine the appropriate treatment plan. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Prandin. If any of them persist or worsen, inform your healthcare provider promptly.  

Common Side Effects 

• Nausea 
• Diarrhea 
• Headache 
• Back pain 
• Joint pain 
• Cold symptoms: 
  • Stuffy nose 
  • Sneezing 
  • Sore throat 

Serious Side Effects 

• Pale or yellowed skin, dark colored urine, fever, confusion, or weakness 
• Symptoms of pancreatitis: severe upper stomach pain spreading to the back, accompanied by nausea and vomiting. 

Inform your doctor right away if you experience any of the serious side effects listed above. 

Seek immediate medical assistance if you observe indications of a severe skin reaction, including: 

• Fever 
• Sore throat 
• Burning eyes 
• Skin pain 
• Red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Prandin may occur. Seek immediate medical assistance if any signs of severe allergic reactions are observed, such as: 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Swelling in the face or throat 

Not all side effects of Prandin are included in this list. Inform your doctor right away if any unlisted effects occur. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Prandin, inform your doctor of any known allergies, particularly to repaglinide or other medications. 

Consult your pharmacist for additional information, as Prandin may contain inactive components that could potentially cause allergies or other complications. 

To ensure Prandin is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Kidney disease 
• Liver disease 

Some medicines may interact with Prandin, including NPH insulin. To mitigate the risk of such drug interactions, inform your healthcare providers about any current, newly initiated, or discontinued medications, including prescription and non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. 

Prandin’s effectiveness may be influenced by the presence of other medications that impact the elimination of repaglinide from the body. Examples of such medications include: 

• Clopidogrel 
• Gemfibrozil 
• Trimethoprim 
• Azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole) 
• Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin) 
• Rifamycins (e.g., rifabutin) 
• St. John’s wort 

Various drugs can impact blood sugar levels, potentially complicating control. Examples of such drugs include: 

• Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) 
• Psychiatric medicines (e.g., olanzapine) 
• Fluoroquinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin) and others 

Promptly inform your doctor if you experience high or low blood sugar symptoms. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet to ensure effective management. 

Managing blood sugar levels may become more challenging in times of stress, like fever, infection, injury, or surgery. Seek advice from your doctor, as heightened stress might necessitate adjustments in your treatment regimen, medications, or blood sugar monitoring. 

Blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur due to excessively low or high blood sugar levels. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that demand attentiveness or clear eyesight until you can confidently execute them without risk. 

If you are pregnant or planning to conceive, adhere to your doctor’s guidance regarding the use of Prandin. Maintaining proper diabetes control is crucial during pregnancy, as elevated blood sugar levels may lead to complications for both the mother and the baby. 

The transfer of repaglinide into breast milk is uncertain. To avoid potential risks to the infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Prandin. Consult your doctor before making any decisions regarding breastfeeding.