Starlix

Generic name: Nateglinide

What is Starlix?

Starlix can be used alone or in combination with another diabetes drug, such as metformin, pioglitazone, or rosiglitazone, to lower blood sugar in people who have type 2 diabetes. It is prescribed only when diet and exercise, or another diabetes drug alone, have failed to control blood sugar levels.

What is the most important information I should know about Starlix?

Starlix is an aid to, not a substitute for, good diet and exercise. Failure to follow a sound diet and exercise plan can lead to serious complications, such as dangerously high or low blood sugar levels. Starlix cannot be used in place of insulin.

Who should not take Starlix?

Do not take Starlix if you are sensitive to any component of the drug; if you have type 1 diabetes; or diabetic ketoacidosis (a life-threatening medical emergency caused by insufficient insulin and marked by excessive thirst, nausea, fatigue, pain below the breastbone, and fruity smelling breath).

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Starlix?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Starlix. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a serious infection, illness, or injury; kidney or liver disease; adrenal or pituitary disorders; type 1 diabetes (insulin-dependent diabetes); or need to have surgery.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: Take Starlix 1 to 30 minutes prior to meals. The usual dose of Starlix, whether taken alone or in combination with other drugs, is 120 milligrams (mg) taken 3 times a day. If your doctor finds that your blood glucose (HbA1C) levels are near normal before you start taking the drug, you may take a lower dose of 60 mg 3 times a day.

The safety and effectiveness of Starlix in children have not been established.

How should I take Starlix?

Starlix should be taken before each meal, anywhere from 1-30 minutes before you begin to eat. If you skip a meal, skip your Starlix dose as well and wait until your next meal before taking Starlix.

What should I avoid while taking Starlix?

Starlix can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). This risk is increased by missed meals, alcohol, other diabetes medications, and excessive exercise. It is more likely to occur in older or malnourished people and those with poorly functioning adrenal or pituitary glands. To avoid low blood sugar, take Starlix only with meals and closely follow the diet and exercise regimen suggested by your doctor.

Symptoms of mild low blood sugar may include blurred vision, cold sweats, dizziness, fast heartbeat, fatigue, headache, hunger, light-headedness, nausea, and nervousness. Mild low blood sugar can usually be corrected by eating sugar or a sugar-based product. Symptoms of more severe low blood sugar may include coma, disorientation, pale skin, seizures, and shallow breathing. Severe low blood sugar should be considered a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Starlix?

If Starlix is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Starlix with the following: airway-opening drugs such as albuterol, aspirin, blood pressure medications such as atenolol and propranolol, corticosteroids, decongestants, MAO inhibitors such as phenelzine and tranylcypromine, NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen, salicylates, thiazide diuretics, thyroid medications

What are the possible side effects of Starlix?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: back pain, diarrhea, dizziness, flulike symptoms, joint infection, and upper respiratory tract infection

Can I receive Starlix if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Starlix during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. It is not known whether Starlix appears in breast milk. Do not breastfeed while taking Starlix.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Starlix?

Wait until your next meal, then take your regular dose. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

How should I store Starlix?

Store at room temperature, in a tightly closed container.