Certified Diabetes Educator Practice Exam

GLP-1 mimetic agents, like liraglutide and exenatide, are designed to mimic the action of glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone that has several significant effects on glucose metabolism and appetite regulation. Among those effects, weight loss, inhibition of glucagon secretion, and increased insulin secretion are all well-documented and critical components of their pharmacological action.

Weight loss is promoted through various mechanisms, including appetite suppression and delayed gastric emptying. Inhibition of glucagon secretion helps to reduce hepatic glucose output, thereby lowering blood sugar levels. Additionally, these agents stimulate insulin secretion in response to meals, enhancing overall glycemic control.

In contrast, GLP-1 mimetic agents do not increase glucagon secretion; rather, they significantly inhibit it. Elevated glucagon levels from alpha cells would lead to increased glucose production in the liver, counteracting the therapeutic aims of these medications. Therefore, the option indicating that these agents increase glucagon secretion from alpha cells is not associated with their effects and highlights the distinct action of GLP-1 mimetics in managing diabetes.