📌 Introduction
Antidiabetic drugs are used to manage diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels. Diabetes is a major global health problem and requires long-term treatment.
This topic is highly important for GPAT, DSSSB, and other pharmacy exams, with frequent questions asked every year.
🔍 What is Diabetes Mellitus?
Diabetes mellitus is a condition in which blood glucose levels are elevated due to lack of insulin or insulin resistance.
Types:
• Type 1 Diabetes → Insulin deficiency
• Type 2 Diabetes → Insulin resistance
📝 Classification of Antidiabetic Drugs
Antidiabetic drugs are classified as:
• Insulin
Used in Type 1 and severe Type 2
• Biguanides
Example: Metformin
• Sulfonylureas
Examples: Glibenclamide, Glipizide
• Meglitinides
Example: Repaglinide
• Thiazolidinediones
Example: Pioglitazone
• DPP-4 Inhibitors
Example: Sitagliptin
• SGLT-2 Inhibitors
Example: Dapagliflozin
🧬 Mechanism of Action
• Insulin → increases glucose uptake
• Metformin → decreases glucose production
• Sulfonylureas → increase insulin secretion
• DPP-4 inhibitors → increase incretin levels
• SGLT-2 inhibitors → increase glucose excretion in urine
🩺 Pharmacological Effects
• Lower blood glucose
• Improve insulin sensitivity
• Reduce complications
💊 Therapeutic Uses
Used in:
• Type 1 diabetes (insulin)
• Type 2 diabetes
• Gestational diabetes
🚨 Side Effects
• Hypoglycemia
• Weight gain
• GI upset (metformin)
• Lactic acidosis (rare)
📑 Important Exam Points
• Metformin → first-line drug
• Insulin → Type 1 treatment
• Sulfonylureas → cause hypoglycemia
• SGLT-2 → increase glucose excretion
🎯 Conclusion
Antidiabetic drugs play a crucial role in managing diabetes and preventing complications. Understanding classification, mechanism, uses, and side effects is essential for exams and clinical practice.
👉 Practice MCQs in evening post
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