Types of Diabetes Medications

There are various medications prescribed to control blood sugar levels, and your doctor will work with you to determine which is best for you. For proper management of diabetes and its associated complications, make sure you take your medications as directed by your doctor. Taking medications along with diet and regular exercise is the key to preventing diabetes and maintaining a healthy body.

When it comes to diabetes medications, varieties of options are available. Different types of medications work in different ways to help control your blood sugar. Learn about these medicines and how they work so that you can discuss these treatment options with your diabetes care expert.

Types of Diabetes Medications

• Biguanides, such as Metformin, are the most widely used Type 2 medication. Available biguanides include Glucophage. Possible adverse effects include nausea, diarrhoea, or an upset stomach, especially at the beginning of the treatment. Examples of these medications include Glipizide, Glimepiride, and Glyburide.

• Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors- These medications work by slowing down the digestion of foods that are considered rich in carbohydrates, such as potatoes, milk, rice, fruits, and bread. Acarbose is one of the widely used β-glucosidase inhibitors. Possible side effects include diarrhoea, gas, bloating, and stomach pain. These unwanted effects usually disappear after a few hours of taking the pill.

• Sulfonylureas- These types of medications are known to stimulate your pancreas to produce more insulin, which helps in lowering blood glucose levels. They have been available for a long time and have been used as a second agent to help lower blood sugar during meals. The type of diabetes medications should be used with caution, especially in elderly patients, because the population is at increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

• DPP4 inhibitors- They are typically used as a second-line treatment to help lower blood sugar levels before and after a meal. The group of diabetes medicines is known to lower blood glucose levels by helping your body produce more insulin when needed, especially right after eating. It is also helpful in keeping our liver from putting stored glucose into our bloodstream. Januvia is known to be the most famous brand in the PP4 inhibitors category. Possible side effects include a runny nose, sore throat, headache, and upper respiratory tract infection.

• Combination drugs- The combination pills contain two different types of diabetes agents. One of the commonly used combination medicines is Kombilyze XR.