Most Effective Drugs for Controlling Blood Sugar Levels in Type 2 Diabetics

Diabetes is a chronic disease caused by your body's inability to convert insulin into sugar or the inability to produce enough insulin. Insulin allows your body to absorb sugar, which is used for energy and proper functioning. Type 2 diabetes causes sugar to build up in your blood, which over time can cause health complications such as blindness, heart disease, liver damage and high coronary artery disease. Treatment for type 2 diabetes includes dietary changes, exercise and medication. Depending on various health factors, your physician will determine which medication is best for you.

Sulfonylureas

• Sulfonylurea is a type of diabetes medication that helps your pancreas release more insulin by stimulating beta cells. According to the American Diabetes Association, it has been used to treat diabetes since the 1950s. The medication dosage is one to two times daily before meals unless your doctor states otherwise. Side effects for sulfonylurea drugs include heartburn, nausea, skin rashes and irritation or bloating.

Meglitinides

• Meglitinides are similar to sulfonylureas as they stimulate beta cells, but requires three doses of the medication daily in order to maintain insulin production. This type of medication allows you to stretch out your eating times, as opposed to other medications that require a rigid eating schedule. A possible side effect of taking meglitinide medication is hypoglycemia, which is a condition caused by low blood glucose levels. Other possible side effects of meglitinides include nausea, dizziness or sweating, according to "Diabetes for Dummies."

Biguanides

• Although biguanides doesn't increase insulin production, it does increase your body's ability to absorb insulin and decreases the amount of glucose your liver produces, according to the American Diabetes Association. Dosage usually requires two pills daily, and possible side effects include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea or trouble breathing. If this occurs, discontinue use and contact your physician or the emergency room immediately.

Thiazolidinediones

• Thiazolidinediones help your body absorb insulin and reduce glucose production in the liver, which helps maintain your blood glucose level. The possibility of liver problems can occur and requires close monitoring by your doctor. There is an increased risk of developing heart disease that can lead to heart failure when taking thiazolidinedones. Discontinue use if you notice any tingling sensations in your arm or pain in your chest. Contact your doctor immediately if sensations occur or persist. Less severe side effects include weight gain and swelling.