Nateglinide
Nateglinide is an oral antidiabetic medication that lowers blood glucose by stimulating insulin release from the pancreas, primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes.
A rapid-acting insulin secretagogue used to control blood sugar in type 2 diabetes by stimulating insulin release from pancreatic beta-cells.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- A10BX03
- RxNorm
- 274332
- Generic
- Nateglinide
- Class
- atc-a10
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Nateglinide is indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults when diet and exercise alone do not provide adequate glycemic control. It may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antidiabetic agents such as metformin.
Nateglinide stimulates insulin secretion by binding to and closing ATP-sensitive potassium (K-ATP) channels on pancreatic beta-cells. This causes membrane depolarization, calcium influx through voltage-gated calcium channels, and subsequent insulin release. The effect is glucose-dependent, meaning insulin secretion is triggered in response to elevated blood glucose levels.
Nateglinide should be taken within 1-30 minutes before a meal to target postprandial glucose spikes. Hypoglycemia risk increases if meals are skipped or delayed after taking the medication. It is not effective in patients with type 1 diabetes or those with significant beta-cell dysfunction. Efficacy depends on functioning pancreatic beta-cells.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy