Glinides

Glinides (meglitinides) are medications used in the treatment of type II DM.  Glinides block ATP dependent potassium channels in beta cells of the pancreas, which results ultimately in secretion of higher levels of insulin.  As the medication increases insulin levels, hypoglycemia is possible.  

Class Drugs

• Repaglinide

• Nateglinide

Class Mechanism of Action

Stimulates secretion of insulin

• Binds to beta cells of the pancreas and blocks the ATP dependent potassium channels, which causes depolarization, calcium influx into cells, and insulin secretion

• Rapid onset and short duration of action, taken before meals

Class Applications

Type II Diabetes Mellitus

Class Adverse Effects

Hypoglycemia

• Caution in hepatic impairment as metabolized in liver

• Metabolized by CYP3A4, so take caution when administered with CYP3A4 inhibitors (itraconazole, fluconazole, etc.) as hypoglycemia risk increases

Weight gain

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Repaglinide			"Repo" "Line" "Eid"
Nateglinide			"Nate" "Line" "Eid"