A test which measures the ability of a compound to diminish the concentration of sugar in the blood is _______

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

RRB Pharmacist Exam Paper 2019

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Hypoglycemic test

Introduction:

A hypoglycemic test is designed to measure the ability of a compound to diminish the concentration of sugar (glucose) in the blood. This is important for assessing the efficacy of anti-diabetic drugs and other treatments aimed at lowering blood glucose levels.

Key Points Related to Hypoglycemic Test:

Purpose: The primary aim of a hypoglycemic test is to determine the potency and effectiveness of a substance in reducing blood glucose levels, which is critical in managing diabetes and other metabolic conditions.
Method: Typically, after administering the test compound to a subject (either a human or animal), blood glucose levels are periodically measured. A significant reduction in glucose levels post-administration indicates hypoglycemic activity.
Applications: This test is widely used in clinical studies, pharmaceutical research, and endocrinology to evaluate the glucose-lowering potential of various treatments, including medications, dietary supplements, and insulin therapy.

Explanation of Other Options:

Hyperglycemic test

Rationale: A hyperglycemic test is focused on assessing the increase in blood glucose levels, which is the opposite of a hypoglycemic test. It measures the body's response to glucose intake and is typically used to diagnose conditions like diabetes.

Glucose Tolerance Test

Rationale: The Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT) measures how well the body processes glucose and is used to diagnose diabetes and other disorders of glucose metabolism. It involves measuring blood glucose levels at intervals after consuming a glucose solution but is not specifically focused on the ability of a compound to lower blood glucose.

Liver Function Test

Rationale: Liver Function Tests (LFTs) are a group of blood tests used to evaluate the performance of the liver by measuring levels of enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin in the blood. They do not directly measure blood glucose levels or the ability of compounds to reduce them.

Additional Information:

Clinical Importance: Hypoglycemic tests are crucial for developing and approving new treatments for diabetes, ensuring their safety and effectiveness in managing blood glucose levels.
Indicators: During a hypoglycemic test, common indicators of effective glucose-lowering activity might include reduced blood glucose levels, changes in insulin sensitivity, and improved glycemic control.
Safety: Monitoring for hypoglycemia (abnormally low blood glucose levels) is also critical during these tests to avoid adverse effects that can result from excessive glucose lowering.

Conclusion:

A hypoglycemic test is the appropriate test for measuring the ability of a compound to diminish the concentration of sugar in the blood, playing a vital role in the development and assessment of diabetes treatments.