Antidiabetic Drugs Health Article

Interactions

The sulfonylureas have a particularly long list of drug interactions, several of which may be severe. Review specific literature for these drugs.

The actions of oral hypoglycemic agents may be strengthened by highly protein bound drugs, including NSAIDs, salicylates, sulfonamides, chloramphenicol, coumarins, probenecid, MAOIs, and beta blockers.

Review the specific literature of each drugs for possible drug-drug or food-drug interactions.

KEY TERMS

Blood sugar—The concentration of glucose in the blood.

Glucose—A simple sugar that serves as the body's main source of energy.

Hormone—A substance that is produced in one part of the body, then travels through the bloodstream to another part of the body where it has its effect.

Metabolism—All the physical and chemical changes that occur in cells to allow growth and maintain body functions. These include processes that break down substances to yield energy and processes that build up other substances necessary for life.

Pregnancy category—A system of classifying drugs according to their established risks for use during pregnancy. Category A: Controlled human studies have demonstrated no fetal risk. Category B: Animal studies indicate no fetal risk, but no human studies; or adverse effects in animals, but not in well-controlled human studies. Category C: No adequate human or animal studies; or adverse fetal effects in animal studies, but no available human data. Category D: Evidence of fetal risk, but benefits outweigh risks. Category X: Evidence of fetal risk. Risks outweigh any benefits.

Salicylates—A group of drugs that includes aspirin and related compounds. Salicylates are used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever.

Seizure—A sudden attack, spasm, or convulsion.

PERIODICALS

Hingley, Audrey. "Diabetes Demands a Trial of Treatments." FDA Consumer, 31 (May-June 1997): 33.

ORGANIZATIONS

American Diabetes Association. ADA National Service Center, 1660 Duke Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. 800-232-3472. <http://www.diabetes.org>.

National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. 1 Information Way, Bethesda, MD 20892-3560. 301-654-3327. ndic@info.niddk.nih.gov.

OTHER

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. <http://www.niddk.nih.gov>.

Samuel Uretsky, PharmD