NDLE Board Nutritional Biochemistry And Clinical Dietetics Exam 1 Practice

Metformin is the pharmacologic option shown to reduce progression to type 2 diabetes in adults who are at high risk. It works by improving insulin sensitivity and decreasing hepatic glucose production, which helps prevent the switch from prediabetes to overt diabetes. Evidence from major trials shows a meaningful reduction in risk, though lifestyle changes generally have a larger effect; metformin remains a practical preventive choice, especially for younger individuals, those with higher BMI, or women with a history of gestational diabetes. Insulin is used to treat diabetes, not to prevent it. Sulfonylureas stimulate insulin release and carry hypoglycemia risk, so they aren’t used for prevention, and glucagon is used for treating severe hypoglycemia, not preventing diabetes.