Properties

Safety Information

Description

Nateglinide is a N-acylated D-phenylalanine marketed in Japan as novel orally active insulinotropic agent for the treatment of type-2 diabetes mellitus. It belongs to the class of nonsulfonylureas and shows some structural similarity to repaglinide, the only other representative in this family. In single pancreatic beta-cells isolated from rats, Nateglinide was found to specifically block the ATP-sensitive K+ channel resulting in an increase in intracellular calcium concentration. This primary action would underlie the mechanism by which Nateglinide markedly stimulates or potentiates, depending on glucose concentrations, insulin secretion from pancreatic beta-cells. Clinical studies demonstrated a good safety profile with a low potential for hypoglycemia. The pharmacokinetic profile was consistent with the changes of the blood glucose and plasma insulin level. Interestingly, Nateglinide exerts a rapid onset and short duration of action due to a rapid absorption and clearance. Unlike other similar agents, Nateglinide suppresses postprandial glucose elevations.