Understanding Diabetes

Many people with Diabetes can manage their disease with lifestyle modifications of improved diet and increased exercise. Over time, a decline in pancreatic function may require additional treatment. The good news is…recent advances in medications can have a positive impact.

All Diabetes pills sold today in the United States are members of five classes of drugs that work in different ways to lower blood glucose levels.

1. Sulfonylureas stimulate the beta cells of the pancreas to release more insulin. All sulfonylurea drugs have similar effects on blood glucose levels, but they differ in side effects, how often they are taken and interactions with other drugs.
2. Meglitinides are drugs that also stimulate the beta cells to release insulin. They are taken before meals.
3. Biguanides lower blood glucose levels primarily by decreasing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and also help to lower blood glucose levels by making muscle tissue more sensitive to insulin so glucose can be absorbed. It is usually taken two times a day.
4. Thiazolidinediones help insulin work better in the muscle and fat and also reduce glucose production in the liver. Thiazolidinediones are taken once or twice a day with food.
5. Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors help the body to lower blood glucose levels by blocking the breakdown of starches, such as bread, potatoes, and pasta in the intestine. They also slow the breakdown of some sugars, such as table sugar. Their action slows the rise in blood glucose levels after a meal. They should be taken with the first bite of a meal.

Because these drugs act in different ways to lower blood glucose levels, they may be used together. Though taking more than one drug can be more costly and can increase the risk of side effects, combining oral medications can improve blood glucose control when taking only a single pill does not have the desired effects. If you have Diabetes, talk with your health care provider about what treatment options are right for you.

Back to Diabetes