Pharmacologic Management of Diabetes Type 2: Prescribing Strategies for APRNs

Course overview

This advanced continuing education course is designed for Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) and provides a detailed examination of pharmacologic treatments for type 2 diabetes mellitus. The content focuses on prescribing strategies, pharmacodynamics, individualized patient selection, and evidence-based guidance for safe and effective glucose-lowering therapy. Emphasis is placed on real-world clinical decision-making, including considerations for older adults, patients with comorbid conditions, and special populations. Key classes reviewed include metformin, GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors, DPP-4 inhibitors, insulin, and emerging dual incretin agents. This course prepares APRNs to make nuanced prescribing decisions grounded in current guidelines and outcomes data. Learning Objectives By the end of this course, the participant will be able to: Describe the mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, and therapeutic roles of key antihyperglycemic agents used in type 2 diabetes. Evaluate guideline-based algorithms and clinical trial evidence to support medication selection and combination strategies. Identify patient-specific factors, including cardiovascular, renal, and geriatric considerations, that impact prescribing decisions. Safely initiate and titrate medications for diabetes, including complex agents such as GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors. Monitor for adverse effects, treatment failure, and safety issues to optimize long-term glycemic control and reduce complications.