Information about Starlix (Nateglinide)
Starlix is a medication containing nateglinide, a non-sulfonylurea oral hypoglycemic agent used in the management of type 2 diabetes. It works by stimulating the pancreas to release insulin in response to meals, helping to control blood sugar levels after eating. Starlix is typically used alongside a proper diet and exercise plan to improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes.
Product Highlights
- It is used to help control blood glucose levels in adults with type 2 diabetes, particularly focusing on reducing postprandial (after meal) hyperglycemia.
- It is often used as an adjunct to diet and exercise in managing type 2 diabetes when blood sugar levels are not adequately controlled by lifestyle changes alone.
- Starlix may be prescribed in combination with other medications, such as metformin, for more effective blood sugar management.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Starlix helps control postprandial blood sugar levels by acting quickly after meals, making it effective for controlling spikes in blood glucose following meals.
- Unlike some other diabetes medications, Starlix has a lower risk of causing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), particularly when taken with meals.
- When combined with a balanced diet and exercise, Starlix can improve overall blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes.
- Starlix is typically taken shortly before meals, allowing for flexible dosing to suit meal timing.
Direction of Use
- The usual dose of Starlix is 60 mg to 120 mg before each meal, typically taken three times a day. The dose may be adjusted based on the patient’s blood glucose levels and the advice of their healthcare provider.
- Take Starlix tablets orally, just before a meal. It should not be taken if a meal is skipped.
- Your healthcare provider may adjust the dose based on your blood sugar control and any side effects experienced.
- If a dose is missed, take it before your next meal but never take two doses at the same time.
Safety Concerns
- While Starlix has a lower risk of hypoglycemia compared to other antidiabetic medications, it can still cause low blood sugar, especially when taken with other antidiabetic drugs.
- Patients with liver or kidney impairment should use Starlix with caution, and dosing adjustments may be necessary.
- The safety of Starlix during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been fully established. It should only be used when necessary and under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
- Rarely, Starlix can cause allergic reactions, including rash, itching, or swelling. If any of these symptoms arise, promptly consult a healthcare professional.
- Starlix may interact with other medications, including other diabetes treatments, blood pressure medications, and certain antifungal drugs. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking.
Avoid Starlix (Nateglinide) If
- If you have known hypersensitivity to nateglinide or any of the components of the medication, you should avoid using it.
- Starlix is not suitable for people with type 1 diabetes as it requires functioning insulin production, which people with type 1 diabetes do not have.
- Starlix should not be used in the presence of diabetic ketoacidosis (a serious complication of diabetes).
- The safety of Starlix during pregnancy has not been established. It should be used only when necessary and prescribed by a healthcare provider.
- If you have severe renal or hepatic impairment, Starlix may not be suitable for you.
- Starlix is not recommended for breastfeeding unless deemed necessary by your doctor.
