Certified Diabetes Educator Practice Exam

Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, such as acarbose and miglitol, are primarily used in the management of type 2 diabetes by slowing the absorption of carbohydrates in the intestines. However, their use is contraindicated in certain situations, and pregnancy is one of them.

During pregnancy, the physiological changes can significantly impact glucose metabolism and the effectiveness of medications. The safety of many medications, including alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, has not been established in pregnant women, which is why their use is contraindicated. It's crucial for healthcare providers to prioritize the health of both the mother and the developing fetus, and prescribing medications without established safety data can pose risks.

In contrast, hypertension is not a direct contraindication for these medications, as individuals with well-managed hypertension can safely use them. Healthy liver function is also not a contraindication; in fact, liver function abnormalities can influence drug metabolism, but not having a healthy liver does not exclude use. Regarding serum creatinine levels, the use of alpha-glucosidase inhibitors is typically safe in patients with normal renal function, and a serum creatinine level of 1.5 does not automatically preclude their use. Thus, the concern surrounding the safety of alpha-glucosidase inhibitors during