Repaglinide
Repaglinide is an oral antidiabetic medication used to manage type 2 diabetes by stimulating the pancreas to release insulin in response to meals.
Repaglinide is a rapid-acting insulin secretagogue used to lower blood sugar in type 2 diabetes by stimulating insulin release from the pancreas.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- A10BX02
- RxNorm
- 73044
- Generic
- Repaglinide
- 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.
Repaglinide is indicated for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults when diet, exercise, and weight reduction alone are not adequate. It may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antidiabetic medications such as metformin when monotherapy is insufficient.
Repaglinide stimulates insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells by binding to and closing ATP-sensitive potassium channels on the cell membrane, causing cell depolarization and opening of calcium channels. The resulting calcium influx triggers insulin release. Importantly, this insulin secretion is glucose-dependent, meaning it works in response to elevated blood glucose levels and diminishes when glucose levels are low.
Repaglinide should be taken before each main meal (typically within 30 minutes before eating). It requires functioning pancreatic beta cells to work and is not effective in type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. The main risk is hypoglycemia, especially if meals are skipped or delayed after taking the medication. Patients should avoid skipping meals while on this medication and inform their doctor of any other medications they are taking, as drug interactions may occur.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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