Novonorm 0.5 mg Repaglinide 30 Tablets

Medication name: Novonorm Repaglinide 0.5 mg Tablets × 30
Drug class: Meglitinide (short-acting insulin secretagogue / oral antidiabetic agent)

Use:
This medication is used to control blood glucose levels in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
It helps the body release insulin in response to meals, making it particularly effective for managing post-meal (after eating) blood sugar spikes.
Novonorm is often used when diet, exercise, and weight control alone are insufficient, and may be prescribed alone or with metformin.

How it works:
The active ingredient, repaglinide, stimulates the pancreas to release insulin by acting on specific receptors in pancreatic beta cells.
It works quickly and for a short duration, mimicking the body’s natural insulin release after eating.
This helps reduce high blood sugar levels that occur after meals, with a lower risk of prolonged hypoglycemia compared to longer-acting drugs.

Dosage and administration:
The usual starting dose is 0.5 mg taken before each main meal (2–4 times daily).
Your doctor may adjust the dose gradually based on blood sugar response, up to 4 mg before each meal if necessary.
Take the tablet 15–30 minutes before eating, and skip a dose if you skip a meal.
Swallow the tablet whole with water — do not crush or chew it.

Side effects:
Novonorm is generally well tolerated when used as directed.
The most common side effect is low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially if you skip meals or exercise excessively.
Symptoms include sweating, dizziness, trembling, hunger, or confusion.
Other mild side effects may include headache, nausea, or joint pain.
Severe hypoglycemia or allergic reactions are rare but require immediate medical attention.

Precautions:
Do not use if allergic to repaglinide or if you have type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
Consult your doctor if you have liver disease, severe infection, or stress-related conditions, as dose adjustments may be necessary.
Avoid alcohol, as it can alter blood sugar control.
This medication acts quickly — always take it before meals and avoid skipping food after taking a dose.
Not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice.

Storage:
Store below 25 °C in a dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight.
Keep tablets in their original packaging until use.
Keep out of reach of children and do not use after the expiry date printed on the box.