What is Prandin? 

Prandin drug class belongs to meglitinide medication. Its generic name is repaglinide. It is an anti-diabetic medicine that aids in treating elevated blood sugar levels in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DM). It works rapidly, which is beneficial in stabilizing blood sugar levels right after a meal.

How does Prandin work? 

Prandin mechanism of action functions in the beta (β) cells in the pancreatic islets by stimulating the production of insulin. This stimulation increases insulin in the bloodstream, thereby lowering blood glucose levels.  

Along with this medication, a healthy diet and exercise should be part of an adjunct therapy to control blood sugar levels. Also, this drug can be used alone or combined with some other drugs.

Prandin Dosage 

The difference in dosage is dependent on your current health condition, treatments you are undergoing, age, and tolerance to the therapy. There are three strengths available: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg per tablet. 

The recommended initial dose for individuals whose HbA1c is less than 8% is 0.5 mg per tablet before each meal. Patients who are already taking anti-diabetic meds and have an HbA1c of more than 8% are given no more than Prandin 2 mg before meals. 

Adjustment in your dosage will depend on your response to the treatment. This dose can be increased to 4 mg before each meal, with a maximum intake of 16 mg each day.

How to use Prandin 

Before beginning this therapy, be sure to read all of the instructions in the leaflet carefully. Follow all of the recommendations on the medicine label or as directed by your doctor. If there is anything about this medication that you do not understand, consult your doctor. 

This medication is administered orally, two to four times a day before every main meal or 30 minutes before eating. Without chewing or crushing the tablet, swallow it whole with a glass of water. 

Take it regularly to avoid skipping a dose, and writing a note in your calendar may help you remember not to miss a pill. If you missed a dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. 

Do not take more than what is prescribed to avoid experiencing unwanted side effects. Do not alter your dose. Consult your doctor if you need to make any changes.

Prandin Side Effects 

The most common side effects of this medication that typically improve with time are as follows: 

• Weight gain 
• Diarrhea 
• Indigestion
• Joint and back pain
• Low blood sugar
• Headache
• Lung and sinus infection
• Flu-like symptoms (colds, stuffy or runny nose)

If any of these side effects worsen over time or if you experience any of the following adverse effects, contact your doctor right away: 

• Fever 
• Weakness 
• Urine that is red or dark in color, a frequent urge to urinate, and pain while urinating 
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin
• Unbearable stomach pain that radiates into the back
• Severe low blood sugar 

Remember that this is not a comprehensive list of Prandin’s health effects. Other serious side effects are possible.

Precautions 

Ensure that you’ve fully disclosed your medical history to your doctor, especially if you suffered from a severe infection or if you have liver or kidney disease, as this can aggravate your present medical condition. 

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to repaglinide or other components. When using this medication, keep a watch out for any allergic reactions, such as rashes, hives, swelling of the face and lips, throat tightness, or difficulty breathing. You should seek medical assistance as soon as you notice these signs and symptoms. 

When using pioglitazone, keep a keen watch on your blood sugar levels. Call your doctor immediately if you experience low blood sugar symptoms, such as sudden sweating, shaking, fast heartbeat, hunger, blurred vision, dizziness, or tingling hands/feet. You eat snacks high in sugar and take some rest. 

Avoid drinking alcohol because it has the effect of lowering your blood sugar levels and may interfere with the effectiveness of repaglinide. 

Inform your doctor about your medications and vitamins to avoid drug interaction. 

Remember to keep this medication in a cold, dry location. Keep this medication, as well as all other medications, out of the reach of children.

How much does Prandin cost? 

The price of Prandin is relatively reasonable. For hassle-free transactions, buy this medication from this online platform. Candrugstore.com also offers generic for a lower price.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How long does it take for Prandin to reduce blood sugar levels? 

The result varies from person to person. It depends on your response to the treatment. However, Prandin’s effect is rapid; it only takes 30 minutes to one hour to see the full benefit of this drug.

How do Prandin and Metformin work? 

Both of these drugs help treat high blood sugar levels and can effectively regulate blood glucose levels caused by type 2 diabetes. Repaglinide boosts insulin synthesis in the pancreas, whereas Metformin reduces glucose production in the liver, decreases glucose absorption in the intestine, and improves insulin sensitivity.

Is it safe to take Prandin when pregnant? 

It is discouraged to take Prandin when you are pregnant. Consult your doctor for appropriate medication to control your blood sugar levels.

Is it safe for young individuals to take Prandin? 

Prandin is not safe to be given to people below 18 years old and older adults above 75 years of age.