Type 2 Diabetes and Starlix FAQs
Here you can find answers to some frequently asked questions about type 2 diabetes and Starlix.
What is type 2 diabetes?
What is Starlix?
How does Starlix help treat type 2 diabetes?
What are the most common side effects with Starlix?
Can I take Starlix with other medications?
What if I become pregnant while taking Starlix?
Are there any other serious concerns about Starlix?
How do I take Starlix?
What if I skip a meal?
Should I test my blood sugar while using Starlix?
Does Starlix replace diet and exercise?
How should I store Starlix?
Where can I get more information about Starlix?
What is type 2 diabetes?
When you have type 2 diabetes, your body has a difficult time making enough insulin or using the insulin it already has. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body control the amount of sugar, or glucose, in your blood by allowing glucose to enter into cells. When you don't produce enough insulin or it doesn't work properly, you may have high levels of glucose in your bloodstream — especially after a meal. Those high levels of glucose following a meal are called spikes. These spikes in glucose can raise the overall level of your blood sugar, which can cause serious problems.
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What is Starlix?
Starlix is a medication used to treat patients with type 2 diabetes. Starlix is taken right before a meal to help reduce mealtime glucose spikes. Starlix may be taken either alone or with metformin (also available under the brand name Glucophage®*). Starlix can also be taken with thiazolidinediones, also known as TZDs. Actos®‡(pioglitazone) and Avandia®†(rosiglitazone) are examples of TZDs. Both Glucophage and TZDs are medications commonly used to help lower blood sugar levels for patients who are not at their goal.
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How does Starlix help treat type 2 diabetes?
Your doctor has prescribed Starlix because it is important to reduce mealtime glucose spikes — those high blood-sugar levels following meals — and lower your overall level of blood sugar, or A1c.
Starlix works when you eat to reduce mealtime glucose spikes. It works by helping your body release a burst of insulin early, right at the start of a meal. This early burst helps control mealtime glucose spikes and lower your A1c over time.
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What are the most common side effects with Starlix?
As with any oral antidiabetic medication, you may experience side effects when taking Starlix. In studies, the most common side effects with Starlix included mild cold- or flu-like symptoms, back pain, dizziness and joint ache.
Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, occurred in 2.4% of patients taking Starlix. If you experience symptoms of hypoglycemia (feeling shaky, sweaty, tired, hungry, light-headed, irritable or confused), or any other unexplained symptoms, contact your doctor.
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Can I take Starlix with other medications?
Starlix can be taken with metformin or one of the group of drugs known as thiazolidinediones (TZDs) for additional glucose control. These are medications prescribed for the treatment of diabetes. In studies, Starlix did not have a negative reaction with medications that are commonly prescribed by doctors. Make sure your doctor is aware of any medication you may already be taking. Your doctor will know if Starlix is right for you.
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What if I become pregnant while taking Starlix?
Tell your doctor if you become pregnant—or plan to become pregnant—and discuss your treatment options. You should not take Starlix during pregnancy.
As with all prescription medications, you and your doctor should discuss the use of Starlix before you consider nursing a child.
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Are there any other serious concerns about Starlix?
You should not take Starlix if you have type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis, or are allergic to the drug Starlix or its inactive ingredients. Starlix should be used with caution in patients with moderate to severe liver disease because the effects of Starlix on these patients have not been studied. Make sure your doctor explains the risks of hypoglycemia, hepatic impairment or loss of glycemic control.
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How do I take Starlix?
Starlix is designed to provide glucose control at mealtime, so you need to take Starlix before each main meal. Starlix is most effective when taken immediately before eating (1 to 30 minutes before your first bite). If you take Starlix after you've started eating, it won't be as effective. Also, it is best to take Starlix with a glass of water.
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What if I skip a meal?
If you skip a meal, do not take your dose of Starlix. This will reduce the risk of low blood sugar.
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Should I test my blood sugar while using Starlix?
Yes. Follow your doctor's instructions for testing your blood sugar, especially after meals. This will help you and your doctor monitor how well your treatment is working.
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Does Starlix replace diet and exercise?
No. Taking Starlix with a meal does not mean you can eat anything you want or avoid exercising. Eating healthy, well-balanced meals and exercising are always important to control your type 2 diabetes. It's important to follow your doctor and/or dietitian's instructions on eating properly and exercising when taking Starlix.
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How should I store Starlix?
Store Starlix at room temperature, 22°C (77°F), in its original container.
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Where can I get more information about Starlix?
For more information, call 1-888-NOW-NOVA (1-888-669-6682).
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