Diabetes Medications
Some people who have type 2 diabetes can achieve their
target blood sugar levels with diet and exercise alone, but
many also need diabetes medications or insulin therapy.
The decision about which medications are best depends on
many factors, including your blood sugar levels and any other
health problems you have. Your doctor might even combine
drugs from different classes to help you control your blood
sugar in several different ways.
Examples of possible medicinal treatments for type 2
diabetes include:
• Metformin, Biguanides (Glucophage, Glumetza, others) 14
Generally, metformin is the first medication prescribed for
type 2 diabetes. It works by improving the sensitivity of
your body tissues to insulin so that your body uses insulin
more effectively.
Metformin also lowers sugar production in the liver.
However, metformin may not lower blood sugar enough on
its own. Your doctor will also recommend lifestyle changes,
such as losing weight and becoming more active.
Nausea and diarrhea are possible side effects of metformin.
These side effects usually go away as your body gets used
to the medicine. If metformin and lifestyle changes are not
enough to control your blood sugar level, either oral or
injected medications can be added.
23