Final answer:
A patient prescribed Metformin, a diabetic agent, should expect to experience decreased blood sugar levels, as it helps manage type 2 diabetes by decreasing hepatic glucose production and increasing insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a patient is prescribed a diabetic agent such as Metformin, they should expect to experience B) Decreased blood sugar levels. Metformin is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes and works by decreasing hepatic glucose production, as well as improving insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues. This helps to lower blood sugar levels by allowing the body to use insulin more efficiently, unlike insulin which directly lowers blood glucose by facilitating its uptake by the cells. Patients with type 2 diabetes who have become resistant to the effects of insulin will benefit from taking Metformin, as it helps in managing their blood sugar without the need for additional insulin.
It is important to note that in patients with insulin resistance, there may not be a significant decrease in blood sugar upon injection of insulin due to excessive insulin antagonists or defective insulin receptors. However, Metformin can help in reducing blood sugar levels by lowering the amount of sugar produced by the liver and increasing the muscle's sensitivity to insulin. These effects ultimately contribute to better glucose management. Patients should also be aware of the potential for side effects, including gastrointestinal symptoms, and should report any severe or persistent side effects to their healthcare provider.