Repaglinide

About repaglinide

Insulin is made naturally in the pancreas. It regulates the amount of sugar in the blood. If the body does not make enough insulin to meet its needs, or does not properly use the insulin it makes, it results in the condition called diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes).

Repaglinide works by encouraging the production of insulin by the pancreas.

Before taking repaglinide

Before taking repaglinide make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
• If you have ever suffered from heart problems.
• If you are an insulin dependent diabetic.
• If you have recently had an operation or are about to have one.
• If you have an infection.
• If you are severely underweight.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.

How to take repaglinide

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the printed information leaflet, if possible before beginning treatment.
• Repaglinide should be taken during the 30 minutes before each main meal.
• If you forget to take a dose just carry on as normal at the next meal-time. Never take two doses at the same time to make up. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of repaglinide contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Where possible take the container with you, even if empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• It is important that you follow any dietary instructions that you have been given by your doctor or diabetic nurse.
• If you are having any type of surgery (including dental surgery) you must inform your dentist, surgeon or doctor that you are taking repaglinide.
• Check with your doctor before taking up any extra physical exercise as this will have an effect on your blood sugar levels.
• Keep your regular appointment with your doctor or diabetic nurse. Your doctor may want to adjust the dose of repaglinide you are taking.
• Do not stop taking this medicine without speaking to your doctor or diabetic nurse first.
• You must test for sugar in the blood or urine regularly to check your diabetes is being well controlled.
• Avoid drinking large amounts of alcohol or drinking alcohol on an empty stomach. Alcohol may produce low blood sugar and affect the control of your condition.

Can repaglinide cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Other side effects include tummy pain, feeling sick, or being sick.

Side effects that can occur occasionally are hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), itching, skin rash or problems with eye sight - let your doctor know if you experience any of these.

How to store repaglinide

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.

Important information about all medicines