Drug Therapy for Diabetes

These flashcards cover key concepts and information regarding drug therapy for diabetes, including definitions, treatment protocols, drug classes, and potential complications.

What are the two hormones produced by the pancreas that regulate glucose homeostasis?

Insulin and Glucagon.

What is the process of converting glycogen into glucose called?

Glycogenolysis.

What is the main difference between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus?

Type 1 is characterized by lack of insulin production, while Type 2 involves insulin deficiency and resistance.

What are common signs and symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus?

Elevated fasting blood glucose, polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, glycosuria, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and blurred vision.

What complication is commonly associated with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus?

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

What is the primary treatment required for patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus?

Exogenous insulin.

What percentage of all diabetes cases are Type 1?

Fewer than 10%.

What are the effects of insulin on fat metabolism?

Insulin stimulates lipogenesis and inhibits lipolysis.

What is considered elevated fasting blood glucose for diagnosis of diabetes?

Higher than 126 mg/dL.

What drug class does Metformin belong to, and what is its primary mechanism of action?

Biguanides; it decreases the production of glucose by the liver and increases glucose uptake by tissues.

What is the standard insulin concentration for most insulin preparations?

U100 (100 units/mL).

What are the common routes of administration for short-acting insulins?

IV bolus, IV infusion, intramuscular (IM), and subcutaneous (SQ).

What are the potential adverse effects of GLP-1 agonists?

Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

What is the peak action time for rapid-acting insulins?

1 to 2 hours.

What must be monitored before giving insulin?

Check blood glucose level.

What are the three major classes of oral antidiabetic drugs?

Biguanides, Sulfonylureas, and Thiazolidinediones.

What is the role of DPP-IV inhibitors in diabetes management?

They delay the breakdown of incretin hormones, increasing insulin synthesis and lowering glucagon secretion.

What are fixed-combination insulins?

They contain two different insulins, usually one intermediate and one rapid or short-acting.

What should be assessed in a patient with diabetes before administering antidiabetic drugs?

The patient's ability to consume food and their history of nausea or vomiting.

What is the method of treatment preferred for hospitalized patients with diabetes?

Basal-Bolus Insulin Dosing.

What are the early signs of hypoglycemia?

Confusion, irritability, tremor, and sweating.

What is the goal of tight glucose control in diabetes treatment?

To reduce the incidence of long-term complications.