STARLIX (NATEGLINIDE)

Starlix Description

Your doctor may recommend a prescription to buy Starlix if you are a type 2 diabetic and have a problem controlling your blood glucose levels after a meal. Type 2 diabetics are still able to produce insulin, but there is either not enough to keep blood glucose in check or the body does not use it properly.

Starlix or generic Nateglinide is a pill taken orally 1 to 30 minutes before each meal in order to control a sugar spike that can occur after eating, also known as post-meal hyperglycemia. Everybody responds differently to foods they eat, so it would be hard to point the finger at any particular food that could cause a spike. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Better Glucose Control and Fewer Side Effects

When you take Starlix as directed, it stimulates your pancreas to producing more insulin. This action allows cells in your body to store and use sugar for energy when needed. Without insulin, the sugar cannot enter the cells so it will stay in your bloodstream and raise your glucose level. Starlix and other meglitinides tend to cause fewer side effects, such as weight gain and low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), than sulfonylurea drugs. This is believed to be due to how rapid meglitinides work and do not stay in your body very long.

The Most Common Diabetes is Type 2

Type 2 diabetes is more common than type 1 and is recognized as the world’s fastest growing chronic condition with 1 in 11 adults having diabetes. More attention is being given to the number of children being diagnosed with this condition in hopes of seeing a decline in the statistics. Healthier food, exercise, no more smoking, and taking control of your body before and after diabetes becomes a part of your life, it’s never too late to lose weight and eat smart.

There is no cure for diabetes, only treatment to regulate blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetics will eventually need insulin injections as time goes on as the beta cells in your pancreas wear out and are no longer able to produce your own insulin. This is nothing you did wrong, it is inevitable.

Before Starlix is Prescribed

Ask your doctor about the effects of Starlix if taken while you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or when breast feeding. To determine if Starlix is the right medication for you, tell your doctor about other medical conditions or allergies you have and list any OTC or Rx drugs you take or use, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements.

Starlix Proper Use and Recommendations

Starlix is not for use in those with type 1 diabetes as it requires beta cells for producing insulin before it will work. Do not take Starlix if you know you will be skipping a meal. Because Starlix is fast, as well as short-acting, it is more convenient than other meal-time meds as you can vary your meal times if needed. You should not drink alcohol while taking Starlix as your blood glucose levels may drop too low.

Possible Side Effects of Starlix

• Dizziness
• Low blood sugar
• Flu-like symptoms