Module 7 - Clinical Considerations In Pharmacology: Diabetes

Question 1

What is a normal glucose levels in a fasting state?

Answer 1

3.5-5.0 mmol/L

Question 2

What is a normal glucose level in a fed state?

Answer 2

4.0-7.0 mmol/L

Question 3

When is the onset of Type 1 diabetes?

Answer 3

Early - Child and adolescents

Question 4

When is the onset of type 2 diabetes?

Answer 4

Gradual - >35 years

Question 5

What is the treatment of type 1 diabetes?

Answer 5

Insulin

Question 6

What is the treatment of type 2 diabetes?

Answer 6

Diet, exercise and oral hypoglycaemic agents (metformin)

Question 7

Describe the mechanism of action of metformin

Answer 7

Reduces production of glucose in the liver and increases glucose uptake in skeletal muscle

Question 8

What is the adverse effect of metformin?

Answer 8

Lactic acidosis

Question 9

Describe the mechanism of action of sulphonylureas

Answer 9

Increases secretion of insulin in pancreas

Question 10

Provide an example of a sulphonylureas

Answer 10

Gliclazide and glibenclamide

Question 11

Describe the mechanism of action of insulin

Answer 11

Removes glucose from the blood and moves it into cells to be used as energy

Question 12

What is hypoglycaemia?

Answer 12

Low blood sugar

Question 13

What is the treatment of hypoglycaemia?

Answer 13

Oral administration of glucose or subcutaneous/IM injection of glucagon

Question 14

When is glucagon used?

Answer 14

Severe hypoglycaemia when individuals cannot eat or drink

Question 15

Provide examples of drugs which can cause hyperglycaemia

Answer 15

Antipsychotics, glucagon, glucocorticosteroids, thiazide diuretic and social drugs (amphetamines, cocaine, marijuana)

Question 16

Provide examples of drugs which can cause hypoglycaemia

Answer 16

ACE inhibitors, asprin, beta blockers, insulin, MAOIs and social drugs (alcohol)