A patient taking empagliflozin has nausea, abdominal pain and deep, rapid breathing. The blood glucose level is 148 mg/dL (8.2 mmol/L). Which action is the priority?

Correct answer: A. Notify the provider urgently and prepare for ketone testing

  • A. Notify the provider urgently and prepare for ketone testing
  • B. Give the next dose with food to prevent gastric irritation
  • C. Reassure the patient because the glucose level is not elevated
  • D. Give a rapid-acting carbohydrate and recheck glucose later

Explanation

SGLT2 inhibitors can rarely cause diabetic ketoacidosis with only a mildly raised or near-normal glucose level. The symptoms require urgent assessment for ketones and acidosis, rather than reassurance based on the glucose value.

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About Endocrine and Diabetes Drugs

Endocrine pharmacology includes insulin preparations, oral antidiabetic drugs, thyroid and antithyroid medicines, corticosteroids, sex hormones and drugs affecting calcium balance. Questions address onset and duration, administration, monitoring, hypoglycaemia, steroid adverse effects and the difference between replacing a deficient hormone and suppressing excessive hormone activity.

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