|  | Conditions Treatments | Diabetes

Prandin Precautions

Prandin is the brand name for repaglinide. Diet, exercise and possibly other medications are used together with Prandin to control Type 2 diabetes. Patients take Prandin just before eating or up to 30 minutes before. The medication causes the pancreas to produce insulin, thus helping to lower blood sugar. Be aware of the precautions regarding Prandin and take the drug only on the advice and guidance of a physician.

  1. Who Should Not Take Prandin

    • Do not take Prandin if you are allergic to repaglinide or if you have Type 1 diabetes. Do not take Prandin and see your physician if you have diabetic ketoacidosis. Ketoacidosis is the result of the body breaking down fat when glucose is not available. The process produces acids called ketones which are poisonous in high amounts. Ketoacidosis is rare in Type 2 diabetes patients; if it does occur it is usually brought on by a severe illness.

    Who Should Take Prandin With Caution

    • Studies on the safety of Prandin have not been conducted with pregnant or nursing women. Pregnant or nursing women should discuss the issue with their doctor before taking Prandin. Those with liver or kidney disease should not take Prandin without their doctor's approval.

    Low Blood Glucose (Hypoglycemia)

    • Hypoglycemia is a potential side effect of taking Prandin. Hypoglycemia can occur from prolonged exercise, alcohol, stress or missing meals. Symptoms of low blood glucose include hunger, tremors, headache, irritability and difficulty concentrating. Test your blood sugar, and if your blood sugar is low, take a simple carbohydrate such as orange juice or hard candy or whatever is recommended by your physician. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

    High Blood Glucose (Hyperglycemia)

    • Check your blood sugar often when following a Prandin regimen. Check to make sure your blood sugar is not too high. Symptoms of high blood sugar include dry mouth, increased thirst and urination, hunger, blurred vision, dizziness and drowsiness. In clinical trials, hyperglycemia was one of the adverse events that led to the discontinuation of the Prandin regimen.

    Other Side Effects

    • In addition to hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, patients also experienced cold- and flulike symptoms, headache, joint and back pain and diarrhea.

Diabetes - Related Articles