CEA Nursing Practice Exam

Which pharmacologic agent may assist with weight gain concerns in a patient with diabetes mellitus?

1. Lantus (Insulin glargine)

2. Glipizide (Glucotrol)

3. Ozempic (Semaglutide)

4. Metformin (Glucophage)

The correct answer is: Ozempic (Semaglutide)

In the context of managing weight gain concerns for a patient with diabetes mellitus, Ozempic (Semaglutide) is noteworthy due to its efficacy as a GLP-1 receptor agonist. This class of medication not only controls blood sugar levels but also has the added benefit of promoting weight loss, which can be particularly valuable in diabetic patients who may be struggling with weight management. Ozempic works by enhancing insulin secretion in response to meals, suppressing glucagon release, and slowing gastric emptying, which collectively can lead to decreased appetite and weight loss. This mechanism supports the notion that not all diabetes medications promote weight gain—some, like Ozempic, can be beneficial for patients needing to reduce their weight. In contrast, Lantus (Insulin glargine) is primarily used to provide long-acting insulin coverage, but the use of insulin can often lead to weight gain in patients due to its potential to promote fat storage and increase appetite. Glipizide, a sulfonylurea, can also cause weight gain as it increases insulin secretion, potentially leading to increased appetite and caloric intake. Metformin, on the other hand, is generally associated with weight neutrality or even modest weight loss; however,