Generic Prandin, tablets

Chemical Name: REPAGLINIDE

Common uses

This medicine is used to treat type 2 (non-insulin dependent) diabetes, either alone or in combination with other anti-diabetes medicines, as part of a diet and exercise program.

Before using

Do not take this medicine if you are also taking gemfibrozil because very low blood sugar may occur. If you are currently taking gemfibrozil, tell your doctor or pharmacist before starting this medicine. Additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking ketoconazole, miconazole, clarithromycin, troglitazone, rifampin, barbiturates, or carbamazepine. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, especially: kidney disease, liver disease, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. Use of this medicine is not recommended if you have a history of acidosis or type 1 (insulin dependent) diabetes. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Take this medicine 15 to 30 minutes before each meal. If you skip a meal, do not take the dose for the skipped meal. Store this medicine at room temperature below 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) in a tightly-closed container, away from heat, moisture, and light. If you miss a dose of this medicine, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

Do not exceed the recommended dose without checking with your doctor. Do not stop using this medicine without first checking with your doctor. Keep all doctor and laboratory appointments while you are using this medicine. This medicine may cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Signs of hypoglycemia include an increased heartbeat, headache, sweating, tremor, increased hunger, changes in vision, nervousness, or tiredness. Discuss with your doctor or nurse how to handle hypoglycemic reactions.

Before you have any medical or dental treatments, emergency care, or surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using this medicine. Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. It is unknown if this medicine is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine.

Possible side effects

Side effects that may occur while taking this medicine include increased heartbeat, headache, sweating, tremor, increased hunger, changes in vision, nervousness, tiredness, or nasal or chest congestion. If they are severe or continue to occur, check with your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness, fatigue, shakiness, fast heartbeat, nausea, vision changes, confusion, personality changes, seizure, and loss of consciousness.

Additional information

Carry an identification card at all times that states you are diabetic. Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly according to your doctor's directions. If your blood sugar level is often higher than it should be and you are taking this medicine according to directions, check with your doctor. Follow the dietary and exercise plan provided by your doctor. Fever, injury, infection, or surgery may affect your diabetes control. If any of these occur, check with your doctor. Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.