2 Medications for Diabetes Beyond Insulin Free Online FlashCards

How does metformin lower blood glucose?

Metformin decreases glucose production by the liver and improves insulin sensitivity.

Why can skipping a meal be risky with glipizide?

Sulfonylureas stimulate pancreatic beta cells to release insulin, so skipping or delaying a meal can raise the risk of hypoglycemia.

What is important about meglitinide dosing and meals?

Meglitinides stimulate short-acting insulin release around mealtimes. Follow the specific medicine’s instructions for a skipped meal rather than assuming the usual dose should be taken.

How do SGLT2 inhibitors lower blood glucose?

SGLT2 inhibitors reduce glucose reabsorption in the kidneys, increasing the amount of glucose excreted in urine.

Can SGLT2 inhibitor–associated ketoacidosis occur without very high glucose?

SGLT2 inhibitor–associated ketoacidosis can occur even when blood glucose is not markedly elevated. Nausea, abdominal pain, or rapid breathing during illness needs urgent medical assessment.

What health outcomes can SGLT2 inhibitors benefit?

SGLT2 inhibitors can benefit heart and kidney outcomes. For some people with type 2 diabetes and heart failure, chronic kidney disease, or cardiovascular disease, they may be recommended for these benefits.

What are the main actions of GLP-1 receptor agonists?

GLP-1 receptor agonists enhance glucose-dependent insulin release, reduce glucagon, slow gastric emptying, and increase satiety.

What common effect may occur when starting a GLP-1–based medicine?

Nausea and other gastrointestinal effects are common with GLP-1–based medicines. Gradual dose escalation is often used to help manage tolerability.

Why are GLP-1–based medicines generally not combined with DPP-4 inhibitors?

GLP-1–based medicines are generally not combined with DPP-4 inhibitors because the combination adds little glucose-lowering benefit.

What is a typical weight and hypoglycemia profile of DPP-4 inhibitors used alone?

DPP-4 inhibitors slow incretin breakdown, supporting glucose-dependent insulin release and reducing glucagon. Alone, they are usually weight-neutral and have low hypoglycemia risk.

Why should thiazolidinediones be avoided in heart failure?

Thiazolidinediones such as pioglitazone can cause fluid retention and worsen heart failure; they should be avoided in people with heart failure.

How and when are alpha-glucosidase inhibitors used?

Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors slow intestinal carbohydrate digestion and absorption, mainly reducing after-meal glucose rises. Take them with the first bite of a meal as directed.