Information about Various Medications for Diabetes Articles | Diabetes

By: Guy Starbuck

Anyone who has diabetes will be required to take certain medications in order to help treat their symptoms and manage their blood glucose levels as well. Type 1 Diabetes requires insulin and so do other types of diabetes as well. Type 2 Diabetes may require an extensive amount of oral medications some of which are listed below:

• Sulfonylureas
• Biguanides
• Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors
• Meglitinides

It all depends on the kind of oral medication that is prescribed for you; any medication will work to manage your diabetes in a variety of ways. What Sulfonylureas do is that they force your pancreas to create more insulin and lower your blood sugar at the same time. This medication will not function unless your pancreas makes some insulin, if your pancreas has stopped making insulin completely, then this won’t help you. All you have to do is take these medications once on a daily basis and they will work their magic for you. The doctor will advise you on the best time of the day to take your medication. Common side effects of the drug include:

• low blood sugar
• an upset stomach
• skin rash or itching
• weight gain

Biguanides are medications which function by ensuring your liver does not produce an excessive amount of sugar which may lead to diabetes. These drugs should be taking 2 to 3 times weekly as instructed by your doctor. A number of side effects may be experienced when using this medication, most especially if you’re the sort that drinks alcohol on a regular basis. This medication isn’t for everybody and your doctor will give you advice on whether it is suitable in your own case.

Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors work by blocking the enzymes which digest starches in the food you consume. These drugs are to be taken 3 times daily along with meals. Its side effects may include stomach problems such as gas and bloating.

Meglitinides are fairly new types of medications that work by helping your pancreas make more insulin right after you eat a meal. These drugs are rather fast acting and your body tends to use them up quickly after your meal, they may result in weight gain as well as low blood sugar.

Oral medications tend to work their magic most for people who have Type 2 diabetes and who have had high blood glucose for less than a decade. It is also excellent for people who have normal weight. A number of people find out that when they have been taking oral medications for some years, such medications may cease to be effective. Switching to another brand of medication will usually help and at other times, the need for insulin may also arise.

As long as you take your medications properly and as has been instructed by your doctor together with a healthy diet and exercise plan, these medications will work better and you can defer the need to start taking insulin. If you have any questions about your medications and how they are to be taken, you should ask your doctor immediately.