Final answer:
Oral anti-diabetic agents, such as sulfonylureas, are used to manage type 2 diabetes by stimulating insulin secretion from the pancreas. However, individual responses to these medications can vary due to genetic factors. Proper management of diabetes often combines medications, lifestyle changes, and glucose monitoring.
Step-by-step explanation:
The relationship between oral anti-diabetic agents and diabetes is crucial in managing the condition. Diabetes, specifically type 2 diabetes, is characterized by high blood glucose levels due to insulin resistance or impaired insulin secretion. Oral anti-diabetic agents, such as sulfonylureas, are medications prescribed to lower blood glucose levels. Sulfonylureas stimulate the pancreas to secrete more insulin, which in turn lowers blood glucose. However, they can cause side effects like hypoglycemia, as experienced by a patient named Arya. This variation in drug response is linked to differences in individual genetics, which is studied in the field of pharmacogenetics.
Furthermore, some patients may have high levels of insulin antagonists or defective insulin receptors that contribute to their diabetes, making management with insulin injections ineffective. In such cases, other medications and treatment strategies are necessary. Managing diabetes often involves a combination of medications, lifestyle changes including diet and exercise, and monitoring of blood glucose levels to prevent negative outcomes like heart and kidney disease.