Question

The antidiabetic activity of glipizide is by _______

• A. \( \text{Promoting Glucose uptake in skeletal muscle} \)
• B. \( \text{Promoting the insulin sensitization} \)
• C. \( \text{Preventing the Glucose synthesis in liver} \)
• D. \( \text{Stimulation of insulin from beta cells} \)

Hint:

Remember that sulfonylureas like glipizide "squeeze" more insulin out of the pancreas. "S for Sulfonylurea" and "S for Stimulate insulin."

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Glipizide is a sulfonylurea, a class of oral antidiabetic drugs. Sulfonylureas work primarily by stimulating the release of insulin from the beta cells of the pancreas. They bind to sulfonylurea receptors on the beta cells, leading to the closure of ATP-sensitive potassium channels, depolarization of the cell membrane, influx of calcium ions, and subsequent exocytosis of insulin. While glipizide may have some minor effects on insulin sensitivity, its main mechanism of action is the direct stimulation of insulin secretion. Options A, B, and C describe the mechanisms of action of other antidiabetic drug classes (e.g., biguanides like metformin reduce hepatic glucose production, thiazolidinediones increase insulin sensitivity).