Starlix

What is it?

An oral hypoglycaemic which is a partial glucose regulator, available as film-coated tablets in 3 strengths, all containing nateglinide. Pink, contain 60mg; oval, yellow, contain 120mg and oval, red, contain 180mg. All are marked with strength and name.

Medical Uses

Type 2 diabetes, in combination with metformin where metformin treatment alone does not achieve control.

Dosage

Adults, 60mg taken 60 to 30 minutes before each main meal, hence 3 times each day to start. Dose then adjusted, if necessary, according to glycosylated haemoglobin levels to usual maintenance dose of 120mg 3 times each day before meals. The maximum dose is 180mg 3 times each day.

Special Care

Moderate liver disorders; elderly, debilitated or malnourished patients or those with adrenal gland or pituitary gland disorders - risk of hypoglycaemia.

Avoid Use

Children, pregnancy, breastfeeding, severe liver disorders, Type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Eorticosteroids, ACE inhibitors, Bz-agonists, CYP2C9 inhibitors, diuretics.

Known Side Effects

Symptoms of hypoglycaemia. In rare cases, raised liver enzymes, allergic reactions. Any adverse side effects should be reported to the Committee on the Safety of Medicines (CSM).

Manufacturer

Novartis.