A nurse is providing teaching to an adolescent who has type 2 diabetes mellitus and a new prescription for metformin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
A.
“Expect the medication to cause constipation for the first few days of therapy.”
B.
“Take the medication at the same time each day.”
C.
“This medication is used for short-term therapy until your symptoms improve.”
D.
“Take this medication 1 hour before meals.”
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is:
B. “Take the medication at the same time each day.”
Explanation:
Metformin is a commonly prescribed medication for managing type 2 diabetes mellitus. It works by improving insulin sensitivity and decreasing hepatic glucose production. Proper administration and adherence are crucial for the effectiveness of this medication.
Option A: “Expect the medication to cause constipation for the first few days of therapy.”
- This is incorrect because constipation is not a common side effect of metformin. Instead, metformin is more frequently associated with gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. While constipation can occur, it is not a typical or expected initial side effect.
Option B: “Take the medication at the same time each day.”
- This is correct. Consistency in the timing of medication helps maintain stable drug levels in the blood and maximizes therapeutic effects. Metformin is often prescribed to be taken at specific times, usually with meals, to minimize gastrointestinal side effects and to ensure effective blood glucose control. Adhering to a regular schedule also reinforces adherence to the medication regimen.
Option C: “This medication is used for short-term therapy until your symptoms improve.”
- This is incorrect. Metformin is not typically used for short-term therapy. It is intended for long-term management of type 2 diabetes. The goal is to use metformin as part of a long-term strategy to control blood glucose levels, not as a temporary measure.
Option D: “Take this medication 1 hour before meals.”
- This is incorrect because metformin is usually taken with or after meals. Taking metformin with food helps reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and diarrhea. The standard recommendation is to take it with meals to enhance tolerability and effectiveness.
In summary, the key teaching point for an adolescent with type 2 diabetes starting metformin is to emphasize the importance of taking the medication consistently at the same times each day to maintain stable blood glucose levels and improve medication adherence.