Question

Which oral drug is the first-line treatment in most newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients who are overweight?

• A. Metformin
• B. Acarbose
• C. Glibenclamide
• D. Sitagliptin

Hint:

Metformin is the first-line oral antidiabetic drug in most type 2 diabetes patients, especially if overweight.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
First-line therapy for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) aims for high efficacy, safety, and weight management.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Metformin: It belongs to the biguanide class. It works by reducing hepatic glucose production and improving insulin sensitivity.
2. Weight Benefit: Unlike sulfonylureas (which cause weight gain), metformin is weight-neutral or often leads to weight loss, making it ideal for overweight diabetic patients.
3. Safety: It has a low risk of hypoglycemia and has shown cardiovascular benefits in many long-term studies.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Due to its clinical efficacy and positive effect on weight, Metformin is the globally recommended first-line oral hypoglycemic agent.