Type of Diabetes Medication
A review article by
Dr Sunil Kumar Feel Free to Connet on LinkedinÂ
The treatment of diabetes involves various medications and approaches to manage blood sugar levels effectively. The choice of medication depends on the type of diabetes, its severity, individual health factors, and overall treatment goals. Here is an outline of common diabetes medications:
1. Oral Medications for Type 2 Diabetes:
- Metformin: The most commonly prescribed oral medication for type 2 diabetes. It reduces liver glucose production and increases insulin sensitivity in the body.
- Sulfonylureas: These drugs stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin. Examples include glibenclamide, glimepiride, and glipizide.
- Meglitinides: Similar to sulfonylureas, they stimulate insulin release. Examples include repaglinide and nateglinide.
- DPP-4 Inhibitors: These medications help increase insulin production and reduce glucagon release after meals. Examples include sitagliptin, saxagliptin, and linagliptin.
- SGLT-2 Inhibitors: These medications help the kidneys remove glucose from the body through urine. Examples include canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, and empagliflozin.
2. Injectable Medications for Type 2 Diabetes:
- GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: These medications stimulate insulin release and reduce glucagon production. They also slow down digestion, leading to a feeling of fullness. Examples include exenatide, liraglutide, and dulaglutide.
- Insulin: In some cases, people with type 2 diabetes may require insulin therapy to control blood sugar levels effectively. Various types of insulin are available, such as rapid-acting, short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting insulin.
3. Insulin Therapy for Type 1 Diabetes:
- People with type 1 diabetes always require insulin therapy as their pancreas does not produce insulin. Insulin is typically administered through injections or an insulin pump. The insulin regimen may include a combination of rapid-acting, short-acting, and long-acting insulin to mimic the body’s natural insulin production.
It’s essential to note that diabetes management involves more than just medication. Lifestyle changes, such as adopting a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and monitoring blood sugar levels, play a crucial role in overall diabetes care. Medications are prescribed by healthcare professionals based on individual needs, and regular follow-ups are necessary to monitor treatment effectiveness and make adjustments if needed. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options for diabetes management.
In addition to that it’s very important to monitor your medication response if the medicine is working or causing side effects like hypoglycemia, many patients experience this during the treatment process but a Data-driven patient care model has changed the way of treatment for the diabetic patient if you manage your health with INIGIMA digital screening It will be your best companion and help you understand medication response, and predict future risks.