PrandiMet is made by Novo Nordisk, Inc.
PrandiMet contains two different
diabetes medicines. These two medications work differently and have the following effects in the body:
- Repaglinide belongs to a group of diabetes medication called meglitinides. Meglitinides can lower blood sugar by helping the pancreas make more insulin. Another type of diabetes medication known as sulfonylureas (see PrandiMet Alternatives) also helps the pancreas make more insulin. However, unlike sulfonylureas, repaglinide is a short-acting medication and is generally used to lower blood sugar levels after meals.
- Metformin works in several ways. It decreases the amount of sugar (glucose) made by the liver. This medication can also decrease the amount of sugar absorbed into the body (from the diet) and can make insulin receptors more sensitive, improving the way the body responds to its own insulin. All of these effects cause a decrease in blood sugar levels.
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a test used to measure long-term blood sugar control. In one study, people who switched from
metformin to PrandiMet lowered their HbA1c by up to 1.4 percent on average. In the same study, people taking metformin or
repaglinide alone did not lower their HbA1c as much as people taking PrandiMet.
Fasting blood sugar is another way to study the effects of
diabetes drugs. In studies, people who switched from metformin to PrandiMet decreased their fasting blood sugar levels by 39 mg/dL on average, while people taking metformin or repaglinide alone had only small decreases (or even increases) in fasting blood sugar, on average.
When and How to Take PrandiMet
Some general considerations include the following:
- PrandiMet comes in tablet form. It is usually taken by mouth two or three times a day before meals.
- It is best to take this medication 15 minutes before a meal, although you can take it up to 30 minutes before a meal if necessary. If you skip the meal, you should also skip your dose.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
The dose of PrandiMet that your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- How well your diabetes is controlled
- Other medications you are taking
- Any other medical conditions you may have.
As is the case with any medicine, do not adjust your PrandiMet dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Side Effects of PrandiMet
As with any medicine, side effects are possible. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. As with most
diabetes medications, low blood sugar is a potentially serious side effect of PrandiMet.
Some of the most common side effects of PrandiMet include, but are not limited to:
(Click PrandiMet Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking PrandiMet?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking PrandiMet if you have:
- Kidney problems, including kidney failure (renal failure)
- Liver problems, including liver failure or cirrhosis
- Low vitamin B12 levels (pernicious anemia)
- Congestive heart failure (CHF)
- Had a heart attack
- Alcoholism
- An upcoming surgery or procedure (including x-rays or other radiology procedures)
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
An overdose may cause symptoms that include, but are not limited to:
If you happen to overdose on PrandiMet, seek immediate medical attention.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your PrandiMet dose as scheduled, simply skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose of the medication. Remember that this medication must be taken before meals; do not take it at any other time.
PrandiMet tablets come in the following strengths:
- PrandiMet 1 mg/500 mg -- 1 mg of repaglinide and 500 mg of metformin
- PrandiMet 2 mg/500 mg -- 2 mg of repaglinide and 500 mg of metformin.
This medication should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. It should also be stored in an airtight container. Keep PrandiMet and all other medications out of the reach of children.
PrandiMet is not available in generic form.
