Oral Hypoglycemic agents are primarily used in type 2 diabetes to enhance insulin secretion, improve insulin sensitivity, or reduce glucose production.
1) Sulfonylureas (e.g., glipizide, glyburide):Oral Hypoglycemic (Antidiabetic) Agents
Mechanism: Stimulate pancreatic β-cells to release insulin.
Use: First-line therapy in type 2 diabetes.
Side Effects: Hypoglycemia, weight gain.
2) Biguanides (e.g., metformin):
Mechanism: Decrease hepatic gluconeogenesis and improve insulin sensitivity.
Use: First-line treatment for type 2 diabetes.
Side Effects: Gastrointestinal upset, lactic acidosis (rare).
3) Thiazolidinediones (e.g., pioglitazone, rosiglitazone):
Mechanism: Activate PPAR-γ receptors to improve insulin sensitivity.
Use: Adjunct therapy in type 2 diabetes.
Side Effects: Weight gain, edema, risk of heart failure, bone fractures.
4) DPP-4 Inhibitors (e.g., sitagliptin, saxagliptin):
Mechanism: Inhibit dipeptidyl peptidase-4, prolonging incretin hormones which increase insulin secretion and decrease glucagon.
Use: Type 2 diabetes.
Side Effects: Nasopharyngitis, pancreatitis (rare).
5) SGLT2 Inhibitors (e.g., canagliflozin, dapagliflozin):
Mechanism: Inhibit sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 in the kidneys, promoting glucose excretion.
Use: Type 2 diabetes, reducing cardiovascular risk.
Side Effects: Genital infections, urinary tract infections, dehydration.
6) GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (e.g., exenatide, liraglutide):
Mechanism: Mimic glucagon-like peptide-1, enhancing insulin secretion and suppressing glucagon.
Use: Type 2 diabetes, weight management.
Side Effects: Gastrointestinal disturbances, risk of pancreatitis.