Diabetes Flashcards
Type I Diabetes Definition
Caused by autoimmune disorder leading to insuling deficiency
Commonly seen in children/adolescents
Rapid symptom onset
Type II Diabetes Definition
90% of people with diabetes
Caused by progressive loss of insulin or insulin resistance
Commonly seen in adults (>30 y/o)
Insidious onset
T2DM Risk Assessment

Diabetes Lab Values
HbA1c (%)
Fasting plasma glucose (mg/dL)
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (mg/dL)
HbA1c (%) - ≥ 6.5
Fasting plasma glucose (mg/dL) - ≥ 126
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (mg/dL) - ≥ 200
Prediabetes Lab Values
HbA1c (%)
Fasting plasma glucose (mg/dL)
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (mg/dL)
HbA1c (%) - 5.7-6.4
Fasting plasma glucose (mg/dL) - 100-125
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (mg/dL) - 140-199
Normal Blood Glucose Lab Values
HbA1c (%)
Fasting plasma glucose (mg/dL)
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (mg/dL)
HbA1c (%) - ~5.7
Fasting plasma glucose (mg/dL) - ≤ 99
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (mg/dL) - ≤ 139
Metformin Brand Name
Glucophage
Metformin Medication Class
Biguanide
Metformin MOA
Reduces hepatic glucose output
Enhanced insulin sensitivity leading to increased glucose uptake
May have some effects on gut microbiome
Metformin Indication
Type 2 diabetes as an adjunct to diet and exercise
(“1st” line)
Metformin Administration
XR: administer once daily with a meal (supper). Do not crush, cut or chew.
IR: administer with largest meal of the day. If split dosing, take with food to minimize upset.
Metformin Time to Effect/Length of Therapy
Initial response may take a few weeks
Expected glycemic effect: decrease A1c by 1-2%
Length of therapy: chronic/long-term
Metformin Common Side Effects
GI upset - N/V/D, gas
Administer with largest meal of the day (while eating or immediately after) or use XR formulation (delivers to the site of absorption in intestine vs delivery directly to the stomach as with IR formulation)
Vitamin B12 deficiency
Monitor hematologic profile annually and check B12 levels every 2-3 years or as indicated by hematologic parameters.
Metformin Serious Side Effects
Lactic acidosis (RARE)
Risk factors for lactic acidosis to be aware of: renal dysfunction, alcoholism, hypoxia, and hepatic dysfunction. Some symptoms to note: confusion, slurred speech, weakness, cramps, and nausea.
If a patient is at risk for lactic acidosis, monitor renal/hepatic function. Lactate levels may be monitored if patient is symptomatic.
Metformin Contraindications
Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30ml/min/1.73 m)
Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis (including ketoacidosis)