Oral Medicines for Type 2 Diabetes
There are many types of pills for type 2 diabetes. Each type helps to lower blood
sugar (glucose) in a different way. You may need to take one or more types of these
pills.
Only people with type 2 diabetes can take medicines by mouth to manage their diabetes. People
with type 1 diabetes must take insulin.
Diabetes pills that lower blood sugar levels include:
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Biguanides
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These reduce the amount of sugar made in the liver.
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Sulfonylureas
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These stimulate the beta cells in the pancreas to make more insulin. They are either
short- or long-acting.
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Meglitinides
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These stimulate the beta cells in the pancreas to make more insulin. They work quickly.
But they wear off quickly too.
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Thiazolidinediones
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These help insulin work better in the muscle and fat. They also reduce the amount
of sugar made in the liver.
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Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors
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These block the enzymes that digest starches. They also help slow the breakdown of
some sugars. This stops blood sugar from rising quickly after you eat.
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DPP-IV inhibitors
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These boost the body's own ability to lower blood sugar. They do this by blocking
an enzyme called DPP-IV (dipeptidyl peptidase).
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SGLT2 inhibitors
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These block the kidney's ability to reabsorb sugar from the blood. Extra sugar is
passed in your urine.
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Bile acid sequestrants
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These are often used to lower cholesterol. But they also lower blood sugar.
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Dopamine-2 agonists
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Experts think these medicines help the body's cells respond better to insulin.
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GLP-1 receptor agonists
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Although usually taken as an injection, this type of medicine is now available in
pill form. These medicines increase the amount of insulin your body releases with
meals. Some of these have also been shown to help with weight loss.
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Some people with type 2 diabetes may take a combination of diabetes pills and insulin.
Your health care provider will talk with you about your treatment options. Together
you will decide on a plan that works best for you. Follow your provider's directions.
They will tell you the times, dosage, and how often you take each type of medicine.
A healthy diet and regular exercise are also important. They can help control diabetes,
even when taking oral medicines. These pills are made to work with diet and exercise.
They don't replace them.