Meglitinides

Endocrine & Metabolic

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Examples

repaglinidenateglinide

Prefix / Suffix: -glinide

Physiology

Postprandial glucose spikes contribute to overall glycemic burden. Meglitinides target meal-related insulin release.

Mechanism of Action

Stimulate rapid, short-acting insulin release from pancreatic beta cells (similar mechanism to sulfonylureas but shorter duration).

Indications

Type 2 diabetes — postprandial hyperglycemia
Patients with irregular meal patterns

Side Effects / Adverse Effects

Hypoglycemia (less than sulfonylureas due to shorter action)
Weight gain
Upper respiratory infection symptoms

Contraindications

Type 1 diabetes
Diabetic ketoacidosis
Severe hepatic impairment

Nursing Considerations

Take 15–30 minutes before each meal — skip dose if skipping meal
Monitor blood glucose, especially postprandial
Teach to recognize and treat hypoglycemia
Useful for patients with unpredictable meal schedules

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