A type 2 diabetic patient is receiving education on the meglitinide, repaglinide for treatment of hyperglycemia. Which statement below demonstrates the patient understands the pharmacologic action of this drug?

A. "This medication works exactly like insulin does and will actively reduce blood glucose after meals": Repaglinide does not act as exogenous insulin. It stimulates pancreatic beta cells to release insulin, rather than directly lowering blood glucose. The mechanism depends on endogenous insulin production. B. "If I combine this drug with a sulfonylurea, I am at an increased risk for hyperglycemia": Combining repaglinide with a sulfonylurea increases the risk of hypoglycemia, not hyperglycemia, because both drugs stimulate insulin secretion. C. "This medication only works if my pancreas still produces insulin since it stimulates my pancreas to secrete more insulin": Repaglinide is an insulin secretagogue that requires functioning pancreatic beta cells to increase insulin release. This statement reflects the pharmacologic action of the drug and shows correct patient understanding. D. "Once I start on this medication, I won't have to change much since the medication will keep my blood glucose levels down for me": Lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise, remain essential. Repaglinide assists with postprandial glucose control but does not replace comprehensive diabetes management.