Type 2 diabetes is a chronic medical condition where the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or is unable to use the insulin it produces effectively. This can cause high blood sugar levels and a range of other health issues. Fortunately, type 2 diabetes is manageable with a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. Here’s an overview of the various medications used to treat type 2 diabetes.
Metformin
Metformin is a popular medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It’s been used for over 50 years and is one of the most prescribed medications worldwide. Metformin works by lowering the amount of sugar that’s released from the liver and helping the body to use the insulin it produces more efficiently. It’s usually taken once or twice a day and is often the first medication prescribed to those with type 2 diabetes.
Sulfonylureas
Sulfonylureas are another type of medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. They work by prompting the pancreas to produce more insulin. These medications can be taken as a single dose or multiple doses throughout the day. They’re usually taken in combination with metformin. Common side effects of sulfonylureas include low blood sugar, weight gain, and nausea.
Thiazolidinediones
Thiazolidinediones are a type of medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. They work by increasing the body’s sensitivity to insulin, helping the body use the insulin it produces more effectively. These medications can be taken as a single dose or multiple doses throughout the day. Common side effects of thiazolidinediones include weight gain, low blood sugar, and swelling.
Meglitinides
Meglitinides are medications used to treat type 2 diabetes. They work by prompting the pancreas to produce more insulin, which helps the body use the insulin it produces more effectively. These medications are usually taken in combination with metformin and are taken before meals. Common side effects of meglitinides include low blood sugar, weight gain, and nausea.
DPP-4 Inhibitors
DPP-4 inhibitors are medications used to treat type 2 diabetes. They work by blocking the activity of an enzyme called DPP-4, which helps the body use the insulin it produces more effectively. These medications are usually taken once or twice a day. Common side effects of DPP-4 inhibitors include low blood sugar, nausea, and diarrhea.
GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
GLP-1 receptor agonists are medications used to treat type 2 diabetes. They work by blocking the activity of an enzyme called DPP-4, which helps the body use the insulin it produces more effectively. These medications are usually taken once or twice a day. Common side effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists include low blood sugar, nausea, and diarrhea.
Acarbose
Acarbose is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It works by blocking the activity of an enzyme called alpha-glucosidase, which helps the body use the insulin it produces more effectively. This medication is usually taken before meals. Common side effects of acarbose include low blood sugar, constipation, and bloating.
Bile Acid Sequestrants
Bile acid sequestrants are medications used to treat type 2 diabetes. They work by blocking the absorption of cholesterol and bile acids, which helps the body use the insulin it produces more effectively. These medications are usually taken once or twice a day. Common side effects of bile acid sequestrants include low blood sugar, constipation, and bloating.
Insulin
Insulin is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It works by helping the body use the insulin it produces more effectively. Insulin is usually taken once or twice a day. Common side effects of insulin include low blood sugar, weight gain, and skin irritation.
Conclusion
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic medical condition that can be managed with a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. Metformin, sulfonylureas, thiazolidinediones, meglitinides, DPP-4 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, acarbose, bile acid sequestrants, and insulin are all medications used to treat type 2 diabetes. It’s important to speak to your doctor about which medications are right for you.