Clinical Definition ACE Inhibitors are a class of drugs that block the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, used in the treatment of hypertension and congestive heart failure, and in the prevention of microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus. In Our Own Words ACE inhibitors are medications that work by lowering the blood pressure and…
Acetaminophen
Clinical Definition Acetaminophen is a crystalline compound classified as a non-opioid analgesic. It is also used as an antipyretic with a similar potency to aspirin. The exact mechanism of action of acetaminophen is not clear, but it does appear to inhibit the synthesis of prostaglandins. In large doses, acetaminophen can lead to acute hepatic toxicity.…
Glucose Meter
Clinical Definition A glucose meter is a device used by diabetics at home to test their own blood glucose levels. Readings are often taken several times daily. These data help track blood glucose control in the short term; in contrast, A1C is a laboratory test that reflects blood glucose levels over recent months, a longer-term…
Insulin
Clinical Definition Insulin is a polypeptide hormone produced by the pancreas that is secreted into the blood to regulate how the body processes carbohydrates and fats, including the conversion of glucose to glycogen. Insulin and its normal cellular response results in blood sugar levels normalizing after a meal as glucose enters the cells, where it…