IMG_3192.jpeg

# Pharmacology 2 ## Medication Classes for Diabetes Management This document discusses various classes of medications used to manage type 2 diabetes. **A. Sulfonylureas** These drugs stimulate insulin secretion from the pancreas. Hypoglycemic reactions, sometimes severe, are a potential side ef...

# Pharmacology 2 ## Medication Classes for Diabetes Management This document discusses various classes of medications used to manage type 2 diabetes. **A. Sulfonylureas** These drugs stimulate insulin secretion from the pancreas. Hypoglycemic reactions, sometimes severe, are a potential side effect. **B. Meglitinides** Repaglinide and nateglinide are used, often for patients with variable meal schedules. **C. Biguanides** Metformin is the primary biguanide. Phenformin was removed from the market due to safety concerns related to lactic acidosis. Metformin can be used alone or in combination with other drugs. **D. Thiazolidinediones (TZDs)** Pioglitazone and rosiglitazone are insulin sensitizers, meaning they increase the body's response to insulin. They may be combined with other treatments for improved management. Potential side effects include edema (fluid retention), increased plasma volume, and heightened risk of heart failure or myocardial infarction (MI), particularly with rosiglitazone. These shouldn't be used for people at high risk of heart failure. **E. α-Glucosidase Inhibitors** Acarbose and miglitol. Side effects include flatulence and abdominal bloating. **F. GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and DPP-4 Inhibitors** * **GLP-1 Receptor Agonists:** These drugs mimic the effects of GLP-1, a hormone that stimulates insulin release and suppresses glucagon. GLP-1 itself has a very short half-life (2 minutes) and isn't suitable for direct use. * **DPP-4 Inhibitors:** These drugs inhibit the enzyme DPP-4, which breaks down GLP-1, thereby increasing its levels and effects. Exenatide, available in sustained-release preparations for once-weekly administration, is one example. Liraglutide is another example in a similar class but with once-weekly application. These agents are used alone or in combination with other diabetic medication. **Adverse Effects:** The document highlights several adverse effects associated with each class of medication, including hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), risk of heart failure, and potential side effects affecting serum lipids.