Starlix
Generic Name: Nateglinide
What is Starlix?
Starlix is used in addition to diet and exercise to control blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes.What is the most important information I should know about Starlix?
Starlix is an aid to helping to control your glucose (sugar) levels. It is not a substitute for good diet and exercise.Blood sugar levels should be checked regularly. Starlix may cause severe lowering of blood sugar (hypoglycemia). There is a greater risk of hypoglycemia if you have kidney or liver problems; are elderly, debilitated, or malnourished; have adrenal or pituitary problems; don't eat enough; exercise too much; drink alcohol; or use multiple diabetes medications.
Loss of blood sugar control may occur when you are exposed to stress such as fever, infection, trauma, or surgery. Insulin may be needed temporarily.
The effectiveness of Starlix may decrease over time.
Who should not take Starlix?
Do not take Starlix if you are allergic to it, if you have type 1 diabetes, or if you have 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: The usual dose of Starlix, whether taken alone or in combination with other diabetes drugs, is 120 milligrams (mg) taken three times a day. If your blood glucose levels are near normal before you start taking the drug, your doctor may have you take a lower dose of 60 mg three times a day.
How should I take Starlix?
Starlix should be taken anywhere from 1-30 minutes before each meal. 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, lightheadedness, 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 an 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: beta-adrenergic blocking agents (such as propranolol), corticosteroids (such as prednisone), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (such as phenelzine and tranylcypromine), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen and naproxen), salicylates (such as aspirin), sympathomimetics (such as albuterol), thiazide diuretics (such as hydrochlorothiazide), or 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, flu symptoms, arthropathy (joint disease), 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. You should not breastfeed or become pregnant while taking Starlix.What should I do if I miss a dose of Starlix?
If you miss a dose of Starlix, skip the one you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule at your next meal. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Starlix?
Store at room temperature, in a tightly closed container.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
