Diabetes Medications
For some people with type 2 diabetes, dietary changes and exercise aren't enough to keep blood glucose levels in check. Diabetes medications can help control type 2 diabetes by increasing insulin sensitivity, decreasing glucose output, impacting carbohydrate absorption, causing glucose to be eliminated by the kidneys, or stimulating the pancreas to step up insulin production, making diabetes medications another great addition to effective diabetes management.
Looking for information about a specific medication? Start here.
For more information on the main classes of medications for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and combinations thereof, click below.
Reviewed by James A. Bennett 5/13
Alpha-glucosidase Inhibitors Alpha Glucosidase (AL-fa gloo-KOS-ih-dayss in-HIB-it-ers) slow the absorption of the starches you eat. | Biguanides Biguanides (by-GWAN-ides) decrease the amount of glucose made by your liver. |
D-Phenylalanine D-Phenylalanine (dee-fen-nel-AL-ah-neen) derivatives help your pancreas make more insulin quickly. | DPP-IV Inhibitors DPP-IV inhibitors boost production of the incretin gut hormones GLP-1 and GIP to help lower blood glucose levels. |
Meglitinide Meglitinide is a type 2 oral medication that helps your pancreas make more insulin right after meals. | Combination Oral Medicines Metformin combinations are used for type 2 diabetes patients when response to metformin monotherapy is inadequate. |
Sulfonylureas Sulfonylureas (SUL-fah-nil-YOO-ree-ahs) stimulate your pancreas to make more insulin. These are sometimes used in conjunction with insulin injections. | Thiazolidinedione Thiazolidinedione (THIGH-ah-ZO-li-deen-DYE-owns) make you more sensitive to insulin. |
GLP-1 Agonists GLP-1 agonists, administered via injectable devices, work in conjunction with other drugs to help people with type 2 maintain control. | SGLT-2s This newest class of oral medications works by slowing down the glucose-recovery process initiated by the kidneys. |
Symlin Symlin is an injectable medication used along with mealtime insulin doses to control blood sugar levels in adults. Find out more. | Organizing Your Diabetes Medications Start here to get your diabetes medications organized. |
Drugs That Affect Blood Glucose Levels Diabetes drugs aren't the only medications that affect blood sugar. Read our list of drugs that may cause blood sugar highs and lows. | Miscellaneous Agents These agents have a smaller effect on lowering blood sugar. They may be used in cases where just a little help is needed or where other choices are limited. |
