Question

question 13

a pharmacy technician should recognize that which of the following medication classes is used as a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus?

biguanides (metformin)
thiazolidinediones
sulfonylureas
dpp-4 inhibitors

Explanation:

Identify the clinical question

The question asks to identify which medication class is used as a first-line pharmacological treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Evaluate the options

• Biguanides (metformin): Metformin is the only widely used biguanide. Clinical guidelines (such as those from the American Diabetes Association) recommend metformin as the preferred first-line oral agent for type 2 diabetes due to its efficacy, safety profile, low risk of hypoglycemia, weight neutrality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Thiazolidinediones: These are generally considered second- or third-line options due to side effects such as weight gain and fluid retention.
• Sulfonylureas: These are typically used as add-on therapies or second-line agents, carrying a higher risk of hypoglycemia and weight gain.
• DPP-4 inhibitors: These are commonly used as second-line add-on therapies rather than initial first-line monotherapy.

Formulate the conclusion

Biguanides, specifically metformin, are universally recognized as the standard first-line pharmacological therapy for patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Answer:

• Biguanides (metformin) (Correct answer)
• Thiazolidinediones
• Sulfonylureas
• DPP-4 inhibitors