Meglitinides
Short-acting medications that increase insulin release around meals.
💡 Meglitinides help control blood sugar specifically at mealtimes.
How They Work
Meglitinides stimulate the pancreas to release insulin, similar to sulphonylureas — but for a shorter time.
- Increase insulin release quickly
- Work mainly around meals
💡 They are taken just before eating, making them more flexible.
Benefits
🍽️ Mealtime control
Helps manage blood sugar spikes after eating.
⚡ Fast-acting
Works quickly compared to longer-acting medications.
🔄 Flexible dosing
Can be skipped if you skip a meal.
Risk of Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycaemia)
⚠️ Meglitinides can cause low blood sugar, especially if taken without eating.
Because they increase insulin release, taking them without food can lower blood sugar too much.
💡 Always take meglitinides with meals.
Common Side Effects
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)
- Weight gain
Important Considerations
- Take just before meals
- Skip the dose if you skip a meal
- Be aware of hypoglycaemia symptoms
⚠️ Taking the medication without eating increases the risk of hypoglycaemia.
Practical Tips
- Carry a quick source of sugar
- Eat regularly when taking medication
- Recognise early signs of low blood sugar
Key Takeaway
Meglitinides provide flexible, meal-based blood sugar control but must be used carefully to avoid low blood sugar.
💡 They are a more flexible alternative to sulphonylureas for some patients.