are non-sulphonylureas that ↑ insulin release.
Characters:
- Very fast onset.
- Short duration (so must be given just before meals) Taken before each meal, 3 times / day
- Hypoglycemia can occur if the meal is delayed or skipped.
- T 1/2 of both = 2 hrs.
- Duration of action = 4-6 hrs.
Mechanism of action:
(the mechanism is very close to that of sulfonylureas)
Uses:
Useful in controlling post-prandial hyperglycemia or in patients whose diet varies from day to day.
- Don’t contain sulfur so can be used in patients allergic to sulphonylureas.
- Used as monotherapy or in combination with biguanides.