Final answer:
Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors are oral antidiabetic drugs that differ from sulfonylureas, like gliclazide, which caused an adverse reaction in Arya through hypoglycemia. These drugs offer an alternative mechanism of action and may be preferable for certain patients based on a personalized medicine approach.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors are a class of oral antidiabetic drugs that work by preventing glucose reabsorption in the kidney, resulting in its excretion in urine and lowering blood glucose levels. Unlike sulfonylureas, such as gliclazide, which directly stimulate insulin release from pancreatic β-cells, SGLT2 inhibitors do not have a risk of causing hypoglycemia, making them a safer alternative for certain patients. The choice between different antidiabetic medications like sulfonylureas, SGLT2 inhibitors, or others such as bisbiguanides and ARBs depends on various factors, including patient-specific genetic factors explored in the field of pharmacogenetics. This personalized approach to medication management aims to optimize efficacy while minimizing adverse effects. For Arya, experiencing hypoglycemia as an adverse reaction to gliclazide, exploring alternatives like SGLT2 inhibitors might be beneficial.