A client taking repaglinide should know to do what if a meal is skipped?

Repaglinide is a rapid-acting antidiabetic medication used to manage blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. One of the important aspects of taking this medication is its relationship with food intake. Repaglinide works by stimulating the pancreas to release insulin, and its effects are closely tied to meals.

If a client skips a meal, they should skip their dose of repaglinide. This is crucial because taking the medication without eating could lead to a risk of hypoglycemia, or dangerously low blood sugar levels. Since repaglinide promotes insulin secretion, taking it without the corresponding intake of carbohydrates from a meal could result in the patient experiencing side effects associated with low blood sugar, such as shakiness, confusion, or even loss of consciousness.

Recognizing the timing of medication in relation to meal intake is key for safe management of diabetes. Therefore, if a meal is skipped, the appropriate action would be to skip the dose of repaglinide to prevent complications.