HYPOGLYCEMIC AGENTS
Introduction:
Hypoglycemic agents are drugs used to lower elevated blood glucose levels in diabetes mellitus. Most of these drugs are taken orally, except insulin and a few injectable agents.
Classification of Hypoglycemic Agents:
- Sulfonylureas: Glibenclamide, Glimepiride
- Biguanides: Metformin
- Meglitinides: Repaglinide
- Thiazolidinediones: Pioglitazone
- SGLT-2 inhibitors: Gliflozins
- DPP-4 inhibitors: Gliptins
Important Drugs:
Insulin:
Hormone that regulates glucose metabolism and is administered by injection.
- Type 1 diabetes
- Severe hyperglycemia
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
Metformin:
Biguanide that reduces hepatic glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity.
- First-line drug for Type 2 diabetes
- Used in PCOS
Glibenclamide:
Sulfonylurea that stimulates insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells.
- Type 2 diabetes
Glimepiride:
Third-generation sulfonylurea with long duration of action.
- Type 2 diabetes
Pioglitazone:
Improves insulin sensitivity by activating PPAR-γ receptors.
- Type 2 diabetes
Repaglinide:
Short-acting insulin secretagogue that controls post-meal glucose levels.
- Post-prandial glucose control
Gliflozins:
SGLT-2 inhibitors that increase glucose excretion through urine.
- Type 2 diabetes
Gliptins:
DPP-4 inhibitors that enhance incretin activity and insulin secretion.
- Type 2 diabetes
