Which classification of drugs helps treat type 2 diabetes?

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by high levels of sugar in the blood due to the body’s inability to produce or use insulin effectively. Type 2 diabetes accounts for approximately 90% of all cases and is often associated with obesity, poor diet, and lack of physical activity. Fortunately, there are several classifications of drugs available today that can help manage type 2 diabetes.

Biguanides

One popular class of medication used to manage type 2 diabetes is biguanides. These medications work by reducing glucose production in the liver while increasing sensitivity to insulin. Biguanides such as metformin are typically taken orally one or two times per day with meals.

Mechanism Of Action

Metformin works through its effects on various pathways:

  • Inhibition of glucose absorption from the gastrointestinal tract
  • Decrease in basal hepatic glucose production (gluconeogenesis)
  • Increase in peripheral glucose uptake and utilization
  • Reductions of fatty acid oxidation

Sulfonylureas

Another class commonly used drug for managing type 2 diabetes are sulfonylureas like glipizide which stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin which then decreases elevated blood sugar levels.

Mechanism Of Action

Sulfonylurea binds specifically to β-cell ATP-sensitive K+ channel receptors on pancreatic cell surface eventually depolarizing cell membrane leading calcium influx inside beta cells triggering Insulin exocytosis

However, they do have some drawbacks; like hypoglycemia,(low blood sugar) weight gain, hypersensitivity reactions (rashes) among others.

Thiazolidinediones (TZDs)

These types also called “glitazones” TZD drugs work similarly than Metformin primarily focusing on decreasing insulin resistance in peripheral tissues like fat and muscle to allow more glucose from the blood to enter those cells

Mechanism Of Action

In simple words, TZDs exerts it’s mechanism through PPARγ- activated protein which has a strong affinity for adipocytes, increasing insulin sensitivity by enhancing Glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) transporters on the cell surface.

These medications enhance the effects of insulin and lower blood sugar levels. However, there are risks associated with them as an increased risk of bone fracture due to some changes in Bone Mineral density and more rarely a heart failure can be seen

Dipeptidyl-peptidase IV inhibitors

DPP-IV inhibitors another class that belongs to oral drugs for managing type 2 diabetes. These medication works by blocking enzymes like dipeptidyl peptidase IV which minimise breakdown/inactivation of incretin hormones i.e GLP-1/ GIP). Both these hormonal actions later help increase Insulin secretion whenever necessary.

Mechanism Of Action

Basically, prolongation incretins axis’s effect by reducing their metabolic decay then leads to :

-Upregulation of intracellular cyclic AMP
-Increased intracellular Ca²⁺ influx.
-Leading to ultimately stimulate insulin release.

SGLT2 Inhibitors:

It’s done inhibiting Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 This class is relatively new compared to others i.e. licenced after mid-decade treatment options available today.

Their mode of action mainly focuses on eliminating excess glucose present in your urine primarily waste after filtration into renal tubules instead bringing back into circulation via a drop in reabsorption efficacy.

As they indirectly reduce glycaemia just aligning with our therapy goal however there are few notable considerations advising avoid use if having chronic kidney disease, hypotension or using other volume-depleted agents in which they might induce hyperkalemia as a side effect

Quick Summary (Table):

CLASS MECHANISM OF ACTION – MOA
Biguanides Reduce glucose production/promote insulin sensitivity
Sulfonylureas Stimulate Pancreas for Insulin Release
Thiazolidinediones Enhance peripheral insulin sensitivity / increase uptake of glucose in tissue
Dipeptidyl-peptidase IV inhibitors Blocks an enzyme that inhibits incretins ; Increase-stimulate islet cells for Insulin Release
SGLT-2Inhibitors Inhibit reabsorption efficiency of excess blood sugar via urine, reduce glycaemia.

Conclusion

Managing type 2 diabetes can be challenging, but the medication classes discussed here represent some effective options to help control high blood sugar levels. Patients should work closely with their healthcare professionals to determine the best treatment plan based on individual needs and avoid unnecessary self-medication through online frauds claiming immediate cure! And may your journey towards controlling your Diabetes not feel like chasing pigeons in a garden

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