Hypoglycaemic agents:

Question 1

Biguinides (metformin)

Answer 1

reduce insulin resistance of cells and limit hepatic gluconeogensis.

Question 2

Sulphonyureas (glicazide)

Answer 2

antagonise ATP sensitive potassium channels in beta cells, preventing potassium efflux, thus increased intracellular potassium and relative depolarisation which leads to calcium influx and fusion of vesicles. Hence more insulin in circulation.

Question 3

Meglitinides (nateglinide)

Answer 3

same action as sulphonyureas but have shorter half lives.

Question 4

Acarbose

Answer 4

inhibits Alpha-glucosidase, which breaks down carbohydrates to glucose.

Question 5

thiazolionediones (pioglitazone)

Answer 5

upregulates genes important in insulin.

Question 6

Gliptins (saxagliptin)

Answer 6

inhibits DPP4 enzyme which breaks down GLP 1, which is released after meals to increase insulin secretion.

Question 7

GLP 1 agonists (exenatide)

Answer 7

agonist to GLP 1.

Question 8

SGLT 2 antagonists (dapagliflozin)

Answer 8

inhibit glucose reabsorption in the PCT.

Question 9

Name some insulins.

Answer 9

Humulin S, Novorapid (short-acting); isophane insulin.