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Adverse Effects of Glycemia-Lowering Medications in Type 2 Diabetes

Laleh Razavi-Nematollahi1, Faramarz Ismail-Beigi2

  • 1University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University, 11100 Euclid Ave, Mather 1600, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.

Current Diabetes Reports
|November 22, 2019
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Balancing risks and benefits of glucose-lowering medications is key for managing type 2 diabetes. Appropriate use of these drugs offers good outcomes with manageable side effects, preventing serious complications.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Pharmacology
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) management aims to prevent vascular complications.
  • Glycemic control is crucial but concerns exist regarding adverse effects of glucose-lowering medications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the benefit-to-risk profiles of approved glucose-lowering agents for T2DM.
  • To discuss mechanisms, benefits, and adverse effects of commonly used T2DM medication classes.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of glucose-lowering medications for T2DM.
  • Analysis of mechanisms of action, efficacy, and safety profiles.

Main Results:

  • Approved glucose-lowering agents generally have favorable benefit-to-risk profiles.
  • Appropriate use leads to beneficial outcomes with modest, often preventable, adverse events.

Conclusions:

  • A rational approach to T2DM treatment involves balancing glycemic control with medication safety.
  • Effective management of T2DM relies on appropriate selection and use of glucose-lowering therapies.
Keywords:
Congestive heart failureEuglycemic diabetic acidosis (euDKA)Genital infectionsLactic acidosisNecrotizing fasciitisSevere hypoglycemia

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