Pharmacological Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus

This 2-hour CE course offers a comprehensive overview of current pharmacologic therapies for the management of diabetes mellitus, with an emphasis on evidence-based guidelines and individualized treatment planning. Designed for nurses and advanced practice providers in primary care, endocrinology, and internal medicine settings, the course focuses on pharmacodynamics, therapeutic selection, and monitoring of antihyperglycemic agents used in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

The course begins with a review of the pathophysiology of diabetes, including insulin deficiency, insulin resistance, and the role of incretin hormones. Participants will explore classes of antihyperglycemic agents, such as insulin preparations, biguanides, sulfonylureas, meglitinides, thiazolidinediones, DPP-4 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors, and amylin analogs. Detailed attention is given to the mechanism of action, dosing considerations, pharmacokinetics, contraindications, and common adverse effects of each drug class.

The course also discusses treatment strategies based on patient-specific factors including comorbidities, renal function, risk of hypoglycemia, cardiovascular disease, and weight management goals. Current ADA and AACE/ACE guideline recommendations are integrated to guide therapeutic decision-making.

Participants will review insulin initiation, titration, and intensification protocols, including basal-bolus strategies and use of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) in appropriate candidates. Emphasis is placed on safe prescribing practices, patient education, and strategies for promoting adherence and self-management.

Learning Objectives:

• Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:
• Explain the pathophysiology of type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus in relation to pharmacologic therapy.
• Compare the mechanisms, efficacy, and safety profiles of current antihyperglycemic medications.
• Select appropriate pharmacologic agents based on individual patient needs and clinical guidelines.
• Monitor treatment effectiveness and adjust therapy based on glucose control and adverse effects.
• Educate patients on medication use, side effect management, and self-monitoring practices.
• Recognize the importance of cardiovascular and renal considerations in diabetes management.

Course Completion Requirements:

To complete this CE course and receive full credit, participants must:

• Register for the course.
• Review all course materials.
• Complete the post-test with a passing score of 70% or higher.
• Submit a completed course evaluation.

Note: Some courses may include additional assignments or clinical case reviews

Important Disclosures:

• Conflict of Interest: The course planners, authors, and presenters have no financial or commercial conflicts of interest related to this educational activity
• Commercial Support: This course has not received sponsorship or financial support from commercial entities.
• Non-Endorsement: Approval of this course as a continuing education activity does not imply endorsement of any products, services, or companies mentioned within the content.
• Off-Label Product Use: Any discussion of off-label medication use is clearly identified and supported by available evidence.