Antidiabetic Agents
(Oral Hypoglycemics)
Class Example Nursing Implications
Administer with or just prior to
meals to avoid hypoglycemia
Sulfonylureas Glimepiride Instruct client to consult PCHP
Trigger beta cells to Glyburide
release insulin before combining with OTC
medications (interact with
many other medications)
Increased risk for kidney issues
Biguanides and lactic acidosis: hold
Inhibit liver glucose before/after imaging tests with
Metformin
production & reduce contrast & teach client to avoid
intestinal absorption of
glucose alcohol
Common side effect: GI issues
Increased risk for heart failure:
monitor daily weight for clients
Insulin sensitizers with any cardiovascular
(Thiazolidinediones) Rosiglitazone problems
Reduce glucose Pioglitazone
production & increase Increased risk for macular
insulin receptor sensitivity
edema: teach clients to report
changes in vision
(Oral Hypoglycemics)
Class Example Nursing Implications
Administer with or just prior to
meals to avoid hypoglycemia
Sulfonylureas Glimepiride Instruct client to consult PCHP
Trigger beta cells to Glyburide
release insulin before combining with OTC
medications (interact with
many other medications)
Increased risk for kidney issues
Biguanides and lactic acidosis: hold
Inhibit liver glucose before/after imaging tests with
Metformin
production & reduce contrast & teach client to avoid
intestinal absorption of
glucose alcohol
Common side effect: GI issues
Increased risk for heart failure:
monitor daily weight for clients
Insulin sensitizers with any cardiovascular
(Thiazolidinediones) Rosiglitazone problems
Reduce glucose Pioglitazone
production & increase Increased risk for macular
insulin receptor sensitivity
edema: teach clients to report
changes in vision
