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Improving IV Insulin Administration in a Community Hospital
Published on: June 11, 2012
Managing therapy and adverse effects with antihyperglycemic agents: a focus on metformin and acarbose
1Univ. of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City 52242, USA. bethphillips@uiowa.edu
Abstract:
Metformin and acarbose are novel antihyperglycemic agents indicated for the treatment of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. These agents offer new therapeutic options to control hyperglycemia that were previously unavailable. Common to both agents is a relatively high incidence of gastrointestinal adverse effects. Initiating therapy at a low dose and slowly titrating to therapeutic response may be the most effective way to minimize associated adverse effects. Recognition and proper management of these possible adverse effects can optimize therapy and maximize the potential for successful outcomes with these agents while limiting drug noncompliance.
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