• SGLT2 inhibitors 20
These diabetes drugs are the newest on the market. They
work by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing sugar
into the blood. Instead, the sugar is excreted in the urine.
Examples include canagliflozin (Invokana), dapagliflozin
(Farxiga), and empagliflozin (Jardiance). Side effects may
include yeast infections, urinary tract infections, increased
urination and hypotension.
• Insulin therapy 21
Some people who have type 2 diabetes need insulin
therapy as well. In the past, insulin therapy was used as a
last resort, but today it is often prescribed sooner because
of its benefits.
Because normal digestion interferes with insulin taken by
mouth, insulin must be injected. Depending on your needs,
your doctor may prescribe a mixture of insulin types to use
throughout the day and night. Often, people with type 2
diabetes start insulin use with one long-acting shot at night.
Insulin injections involve using a fine needle and syringe or
an insulin pen injector—a device that looks similar to an ink
pen, except the cartridge is filled with insulin.
There are many types of insulin, and they
each work in a different way.
Options include:
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Regular insulin (Humulin R, Novolin)
Insulin glulisine (Apidra)
Insulin lispro (Humalog)
Insulin aspart (Fiasp, NovoRapid)
Insulin glargine (Lantus)
Insulin detemir (Levemir)
Insulin isophane
Insulin zinc
Insulin degludec (Tresiba)
Discuss the pros and cons of different drugs with your doctor.
Together you can decide which medication is best for you after
considering many factors, including costs and other aspects of
your health.
In addition to diabetes medications, your doctor might
prescribe low-dose aspirin therapy, as well as blood pressure
and cholesterol-lowering medications to help prevent heart
and blood vessel disease.
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