As healthcare providers, especially pharmacists, our role in diabetes management goes beyond dispensing T we are key players in optimizing therapy, monitoring side effects, and educating patients.
Here’s a concise refresher on major antidiabetic drug classes:
Biguanides (e-g、 Metformin)
Mechanism: Reduces hepatic glucose production Key Points: First-line therapy; watch for Gl upset, rare risk of lactic acidosis
Sulfonylureas (e.g, lipizide, Glyburide) Mechanism: Stimulates insulin release from pancreatic 8-cells Caution: Risk of hypoglycemia and weight gain
GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (e.g., Liraglutide, Exenatide) ○ Mechanism: Increases insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, delays gastric emptying
Additional Benefit: Supports weight loss, but may cause nausea
SGLT2 Inhibitors (e.g, Empagliflozin, Dapagliflozin) ○ Mechanism: Inhibits renal glucose reabsorption → increases urinary glucose excretion
Watch For: UTls, dehydration, rare ketoacidosis
DPP-4 Inhibitors (e.g., Sitagliptin, Linagliptin)
Mechanism: Enhances endogenous GLP-1, promoting insulin release Well-Tolerated: Mild Gl symptoms; weight-neutral
Thiazolidinediones (TZDs) (e.9., Pioglitazone)
Mechanism: Improves insulin sensitivity in muscle and adipose tissue Risks: Fluid retention, risk of heart failure in susceptible patients
Clinical significance:
Tailoring diabetes therapy requires a balance between efficacy, safety, patient comorbidities, and treatment goals.
As pharmacists and nedical professionals, our impact lies in proactive counseling, adverse effect monitoring, and collaborative care.