L7 - Diabetes

What is the primary hormone that lowers blood glucose levels?

Insulin.

What hormone raises blood glucose levels during fasting?

Glucagon.

What are the common symptoms of diabetes?

Increased appetite (polyphagia), increased thirst (polydipsia), frequent urination (polyuria), fatigue, and blurred vision.

What is the mechanism of action of insulin?

Insulin promotes glucose uptake into cells, inhibits glucose production in the liver, and promotes glycogen storage.

What role does glucagon play in glucose metabolism?

Glucagon raises blood glucose levels by stimulating glycogen breakdown in the liver and promoting gluconeogenesis.

What are the two main types of diabetes?

Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

What are the first line medications for Type 2 diabetes?

Metformin.

What is the main action of DPP-4 inhibitors in diabetes management?

They enhance insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner and reduce glucagon levels.

What are common adverse effects of metformin?

Gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and diarrhea, and the risk of lactic acidosis.

What are sulfonylureas used for?

To stimulate insulin release from the pancreas in Type 2 diabetes.

What is the key effect of SGLT2 inhibitors?

Promoting glucose excretion through urine.

How do GLP-1 receptor agonists help in diabetes treatment?

They enhance glucose-dependent insulin secretion, slow gastric emptying, and reduce appetite.

What is the consequence of insulin therapy if too much insulin is administered?

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

What hormone acts as a global inhibitor of hormone secretion in glucose regulation?

Somatostatin.

What are common symptoms of hypoglycemia?

Confusion, irritability, fatigue, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness.

What is the role of cortisol in blood sugar regulation?

Cortisol increases glucose production and maintains glucose levels during prolonged stress.

How does insulin impact glucose metabolism in the long term?

Insulin influences gene expression and cellular growth related to metabolism.

What are the adverse effects associated with GLP-1 receptor agonists?

Nausea, diarrhea, and potential immune reactions.

What does the term 'gluconeogenesis' refer to?

The production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, primarily in the liver.

In Type 1 diabetes, what happens to insulin production?

The body does not produce any insulin.

What is the significance of incretins in blood sugar management?

They enhance insulin secretion in response to meals.

What role does sodium glucose cotransporters 2 (SGLT2) play in glucose regulation?

They are responsible for reabsorbing glucose in the kidneys; SGLT2 inhibitors block this reabsorption.

What impact does growth hormone have on glucose metabolism?

It reduces glucose uptake in tissues and promotes fat breakdown.

What are the two broad categories of diabetes medications?

Injectable agents and oral agents.

What is a hallmark symptom of advanced diabetes related to urination?

Polyuria (frequent urination).

What treatment is primarily required for patients with Type 1 diabetes?

Insulin therapy.

What potential risk is associated with the use of sulfonylureas?

Hypoglycemia.

Why is monitoring of blood glucose levels crucial for patients on insulin?

To prevent hypoglycemia and ensure effective diabetes management.