Starlix is a brand name for nateglinide, a short-acting medicine that helps the pancreas release insulin around meals. Nateglinide is used for type 2 diabetes in adults.
The approved uses and formulations described here follow US prescribing information. They may differ in other countries.
| Medicine detail | Details |
|---|---|
| Active ingredient(s) | nateglinide |
| Medicine class | Meglitinide insulin secretagogue |
| Forms and strengths | Oral tablets: 60 and 120 mg |
A short-acting glucose-control medicine
Nateglinide stimulates insulin release and is used alongside diet and exercise for adults with type 2 diabetes. Its role is tied to meals. It is not an insulin replacement for type 1 diabetes and is not treatment for diabetic ketoacidosis.
Strengths and meal timing
Nateglinide tablets contain 60 or 120 mg. The label describes administration before meals and omission of the dose when that meal is skipped. The prescriber’s instructions should make the individual schedule clear; tablet strength alone does not identify the total daily dose.
Low glucose remains possible
Despite its meal-related action, nateglinide can cause hypoglycemia. Changes in food intake, activity, kidney or liver function and other diabetes medicines can affect risk. Ask for a plan for low-glucose symptoms and disrupted meals rather than continuing a fixed schedule regardless of food.
Interactions and medicine review
Other medicines can strengthen or weaken glucose-lowering effects or mask symptoms of low glucose. A pharmacist should review new prescriptions and the complete medicine list. A drug being taken for a different condition can still alter the safety of nateglinide.
Nateglinide and repaglinide
Starlix contains nateglinide, whereas Prandin contains repaglinide. Both are taken in relation to meals, but their doses and interactions differ. Ask the prescriber before changing between them. Brand names and available products may vary by country.
Questions and answers
Is Starlix another name for nateglinide?
Yes. Starlix is a brand name for nateglinide. The available brands and presentations may differ by country.
What happens if a meal is skipped?
The prescribing information directs skipping that meal’s dose. Follow the individual prescription and ask for advice if meal patterns change.
Is repaglinide the same ingredient?
No. It is a different meal-related medicine with its own label.
Related reading
Sources
Sources checked 1 October 2026. This information does not replace advice from your healthcare professional. For complete warnings and instructions, read the product information and consult the prescribing team.
Reviewed by: Mattias Hagman, PhD
About the reviewer:
Dr Mattias Hagman (PhD, University of Sydney) has an academic background and experience working with healthcare-related content and regulated industries. He has lecturing experience at international universities, including Stockholm University and the University of Malta.
Last reviewed: October 2026