Type 2 DM

Question 1

What medications are used to treat Type 2 DM?

Answer 1

1. 3 main types:
   
   1. Increase insulin release
   2. Increase excretion of glucose
   3. Improve the action of insulin
2. 1^st line treatment = Metformin (improves insulin sensitivity) + lifestyle
3. 2^nd line treatment = Sulfonylurea (increase insulin release) + lifestyle
4. 3^rd line treatment = Add or substitute 1^st and 2^nd line agents

Question 2

What are the important side effects to consider for DM medications?

Answer 2

Metformin – Lactic acidosis, GI side effects, vitamin B12 malabsorption

Sulfonylurea – Hypoglycaemia, weight gain