Medical Pharmacology

Question 1

What is a commonly used Biguanide for Diabetes treatment?

Answer 1

Metformin

Question 2

How do Biguanides work?

Answer 2

Reduce hepatic gluconeogenesis and increase muscle glucose metabolism

Question 3

What are some side-effects/contraindications of Biguanides?

Answer 3

Side effects - GI upset

Contraindications - Renal failure, hepatic impairment

Question 4

What is a commonly used sulphonylurea for Diabetes treatment?

Answer 4

Gliclazide

Question 5

How do Sulphonylureas work?

Answer 5

Increase insulin release from beta cells

Question 6

What are some risks of sulphonylureas?

Answer 6

Weight gain

Hypoglycaemia

Question 7

What is a commonly used Alpha-Glucosidase inhibitor for Diabetes treatment?

Answer 7

Acarbose

Question 8

How do Alpha-Glucosidase inhibitors work?

Answer 8

Inhibit breakdown of carbohydrates to glucose by blocking alpha glucosidase

Question 9

What are some side-effects of Alpha-Glucosidase inhibitors?

Answer 9

Flatulence
Loose stools
Diarrhoea

Question 10

What is a commonly used Glitazone for Diabetes treatment?

Answer 10

Pioglitazone

Question 11

How do Glitazones work?

Answer 11

Increase insulin sensitivity in muscle and adipose tissue

Reduce hepatic glucose output

Question 12

What is a commonly used GLP-1 Analogue for Diabetes treatment?

Answer 12

Exenatide

Question 13

How do GLP-1 Analogues work?

Answer 13

Increase insulin secretion from beta cells

Decrease glucagon production from alpha cells