Mitiglinide Calcium Tablets (Glufast) is a rapid-acting insulin secretagogue, mainly used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Its mechanism of action is to promote the secretion of insulin by pancreatic β-cells, thereby rapidly controlling postprandial blood glucose.
Dosage and Administration of Mitiglinide Calcium Tablets (Glufast)
Routine Administration
Mitiglinide Calcium Tablets should be taken orally immediately before each meal (within 5 minutes).
The routine adult dosage is 10 mg each time, three times a day, i.e., once before breakfast, lunch, and dinner respectively.
Timing of Medication Administration
The absorption and onset of action of this medication are closely related to food intake.
If taken after a meal, its absorption rate will be significantly slowed down, resulting in weakened blood glucose-lowering effect.
If taken 30 minutes in advance before a meal, it may trigger insulin secretion before food intake, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia.
Recommended Initial Dosage
For most adult patients, the recommended initial dosage is 10 mg each time, three times a day.
If the patient's blood glucose is well-controlled or there is a risk of hypoglycemia, an initial dosage of 5 mg each time may also be considered, and then the dosage should be gradually adjusted based on blood glucose monitoring results.
Dosage Adjustment of Mitiglinide Calcium Tablets (Glufast)
Adjustment Based on Blood Glucose Response
Patients should regularly monitor fasting blood glucose and postprandial blood glucose. If blood glucose control is not ideal (e.g., fasting blood glucose > 126 mg/dL or 2-hour postprandial blood glucose > 200 mg/dL), the dosage may be appropriately increased under the guidance of a doctor.
If hypoglycemic symptoms occur, dosage reduction should be considered, for example, reducing from 10 mg per dose to 5 mg per dose.
Dosage Considerations for Combined Medication Use
The combined use of mitiglinide with certain hypoglycemic drugs (such as insulin, α-glucosidase inhibitors, etc.) may enhance the blood glucose-lowering effect and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
When using this medication in combination with other drugs, attention should be paid to monitoring blood glucose, and if necessary, the dosage of this medication or the combined drugs should be adjusted.
Medication Use in Special Populations for Mitiglinide Calcium Tablets (Glufast)
Medication Use in Elderly Patients
Elderly patients are often accompanied by decreased physiological functions, and their liver and kidney functions may decline, making them prone to hypoglycemia.
It is recommended to start with a low dosage (e.g., 5 mg each time) and closely monitor changes in blood glucose, then adjust the dosage carefully according to individual conditions.
Medication Use in Patients with Renal Impairment
In patients with chronic renal failure, the plasma half-life of mitiglinide may be prolonged, thereby increasing the risk of hypoglycemia.
Such patients should take this medication under close monitoring by a doctor, and the dosage should be adjusted if necessary, especially in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment, extra caution is required.
Medication Use in Patients with Hepatic Impairment
Hepatic impairment may affect the metabolism of the drug, which not only increases the risk of hypoglycemia but also may aggravate liver damage.
During the medication period, liver function should be checked regularly. If transaminases are significantly elevated, the medication should be discontinued in a timely manner and appropriate treatment should be given.
Pregnant Women and Lactating Women
The use of this medication is contraindicated in pregnant women or women who may become pregnant. Animal experiments have shown that the drug can cross the placenta and may cause maternal hypoglycemia.
If lactating women must take this medication, they should weigh the benefits of treatment against the pros and cons of breastfeeding, and consider suspending breastfeeding.
