Thiazolidinediones: Mechanism and Uses in Diabetes Treatment

Thiazolidinediones, also known as glitazones, are a class of oral medications used in the management of type 2 diabetes. They work by improving insulin sensitivity in the body's tissues.
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Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Jane Cox

Thiazolidinediones FAQ


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What are thiazolidinediones?

Thiazolidinediones (also called glitazones) are a class of medicines that may be used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. They are a type of oral hypoglycemic (a medicine that lowers blood glucose levels).

What are thiazolidinediones & glitazones?

Thiazolidinediones, also known as glitazones, are a group of oral anti-diabetic drugs designed to treat patients with type 2 diabetes. Classed as oral hypoglycemic drugs along with biguanides, they are taken once or twice daily with or without food and work by targeting insulin resistance – a core physiologic defect in those with type 2 diabetes.

How do thiazolidinediones work?

Thiazolidinediones bind to a receptor called the peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-gamma in adipocytes (fat cells) and promote maturation of fat cells and deposition of fat into peripheral tissues. By reducing circulating fat concentrations, thiazolidinediones improve a person with type 2 diabetes ' sensitivity to insulin.

Can thiazolidinediones help manage Type 2 diabetes?

Access free multiple choice questions on this topic. The use of thiazolidinediones, also called "glitazones," in managing type 2 diabetes can help with glycemic control and insulin resistance.

Do thiazolidinediones increase insulin sensitivity?

Thiazolidinediones (TZDs) are insulin sensitizers that act on intracellular metabolic pathways to enhance insulin action and increase insulin sensitivity in critical tissues. TZDs also increase adiponectin levels, decrease hepatic gluconeogenesis, and increase insulin-dependent glucose uptake in muscle and fat.

Thiazolidinediones References

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