A Review of Diabetic Gastroparesis for the Community Pharmacist

Over 29.1 million people in United States have diabetes and are faced with the complications associated with the disease. Diabetes is the most common systemic disease that causes gastroparesis. Diabetic gastroparesis is commonly suspected in poorly controlled diabetic patients who present with gastrointestinal complaints, especially following a meal. Once a diagnosis is made, management of the condition is centered on optimizing blood glucose control, providing nutritional support including hydration, and in many cases using prokinetic and antiemetic medications. As healthcare providers, community pharmacists are in key positions to assist patients in how to manage this irreversible complication of diabetes.