What is Repaglinide 0.5mg tablet ?
Repaglinide is a medication used to help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs known as meglitinides, which stimulate the release of insulin from the pancreas. This helps to control blood sugar levels after meals.
Repaglinide tablet Uses
- Type 2 Diabetes: Repaglinide helps lower blood sugar levels by stimulating the pancreas to release insulin. This is particularly useful for people with type 2 diabetes who have difficulty regulating their blood sugar levels.
- Post-Meal Blood Sugar Control: Repaglinide is especially effective at controlling blood sugar levels after meals (postprandial glucose). It is taken just before meals to help manage the increase in blood sugar that occurs after eating.
Repaglinide tablet – Mechanism of Action and Pharmacology
- Stimulation of Insulin Secretion: Repaglinide primarily targets the beta cells in the pancreas. It binds to a specific receptor known as the ATP-sensitive potassium channel on the beta cell membrane. By binding to this receptor, Repaglinide closes the potassium channels, causing a depolarization of the cell membrane.
- Calcium Influx: This depolarization leads to the opening of voltage-gated calcium channels. Calcium influx into the beta cells triggers the release of stored insulin from secretory vesicles within the cell.
- Insulin Release: The increased levels of intracellular calcium stimulate the exocytosis (release) of insulin from the beta cells into the bloodstream.
Repaglinide tablet – Side-effects
- Back Pain or Joint Pain
- Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
- Weight Gain
- Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)
