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Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body cannot produce enough insulin to effectively control blood sugar levels. Over time, high blood sugar levels can lead to serious complications, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. To prevent these health problems, people with type 2 diabetes must take medication to control their blood sugar levels. But with so many different medications available, it can be confusing to figure out which one is best for you. In this article, we’ll discuss the various types of medications available for type 2 diabetes, as well as their potential side effects.
Insulin
Insulin is a hormone that helps the body use glucose (sugar) from food for energy. People with type 2 diabetes do not make enough insulin, or their cells are resistant to it, so they must take insulin injections to keep their blood sugar levels in check. There are several types of insulin available, including rapid-acting, long-acting, and intermediate-acting. Your doctor will recommend the type and dose of insulin that’s best for you. Common side effects of insulin injections include fatigue, weight gain, and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Oral Medications
Oral medications are pills that are taken by mouth. They help the body produce more insulin or make cells more sensitive to insulin. Common types of oral medications include sulfonylureas, meglitinides, thiazolidinediones, and DPP-4 inhibitors. These medications can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. They may also cause hypoglycemia if taken in combination with insulin.
GLP-1 Agonists
GLP-1 agonists are a newer type of medication that work by mimicking a hormone in the body called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). This hormone helps keep blood sugar levels in check and helps the body use insulin more effectively. Examples of GLP-1 agonists include exenatide and liraglutide. These medications can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. They may also cause hypoglycemia if taken in combination with insulin.
SGLT-2 Inhibitors
SGLT-2 inhibitors are a newer type of medication that work by blocking a hormone in the body called sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2). This hormone helps the body absorb glucose (sugar) from food. Examples of SGLT-2 inhibitors include canagliflozin and empagliflozin. These medications can cause side effects such as urinary tract infections and increased risk of dehydration. They may also cause hypoglycemia if taken in combination with insulin.
Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors
Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors are a type of medication that work by blocking the enzymes that break down carbohydrates in the small intestine. This helps slow the absorption of glucose from food. Examples of alpha-glucosidase inhibitors include acarbose and miglitol. These medications can cause side effects such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea. They may also cause hypoglycemia if taken in combination with insulin.
Biguanides
Biguanides are a type of medication that work by decreasing the production of glucose in the liver and increasing the amount of glucose taken up by cells. Examples of biguanides include metformin and phenformin. These medications can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. They may also cause lactic acidosis, a condition in which the body produces too much lactic acid. It is important to drink plenty of fluids while taking biguanides.
Amino Acid Therapy
Amino acid therapy is a type of medication that works by inhibiting the breakdown of proteins in the body. This helps the body produce more insulin and helps cells use insulin more effectively. Examples of amino acid therapy include l-arginine and l-carnitine. These medications can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. They may also cause hypoglycemia if taken in combination with insulin.
Herbal Remedies
Herbal remedies are natural products that are made from plants and herbs. They are thought to help control blood sugar levels and improve overall health. Examples of herbal remedies used to treat type 2 diabetes include bitter melon, ginseng, and cinnamon. While these remedies may be helpful, they can also cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any herbal remedies.
Conclusion
There are many different medications available for people with type 2 diabetes. Your doctor will recommend the type and dose of medication that’s best for you. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and to watch for side effects. With the right medication and lifestyle changes, you can keep your blood sugar levels under control and reduce your risk for serious complications.