CEA Nursing Practice Exam

What common side effect should patients be notified about when starting the most commonly prescribed first agent for type 2 diabetes mellitus?

1. Diarrhea

2. Delayed gastric emptying

3. Mycotic infections

4. Constipation

The correct answer is: Diarrhea

The most commonly prescribed first agent for type 2 diabetes mellitus is metformin. A common side effect associated with metformin is gastrointestinal issues, most notably diarrhea. Patients often experience this as their body adjusts to the medication, especially when they first start taking it. Diarrhea can result from metformin's impact on gut motility and its effects on the intestinal microbiota. While the other potential side effects listed are notable with various medications, they are not typically associated with the first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes. Delayed gastric emptying can occur with different medications, particularly those that affect the gastrointestinal tract more directly. Mycotic infections may be linked to certain medications, particularly those that affect immunity but are not a common side effect of metformin. Constipation could be experienced with various drugs but is not a primary concern with metformin; rather, loose stools and diarrhea are more prevalent. Thus, notifying patients about diarrhea allows them to anticipate this side effect, ensuring they can manage it effectively without unnecessary concern about the medication's safety or efficacy.