Medication Guidelines for Type 2 Diabetes

The initial treatment for Type 2 diabetes is typically executing meal plans for blood glucose level control, accompanied by a weight loss and exercise program. Sometimes however, these methods are not enough to help blood glucose levels to fall within the normal range. The next phase of treatment involves taking medication to help lower blood glucose levels.

Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors and Exenatide

• Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, in the form of Acarbose (Precose) and miglitol (Glyset) are responsible for breaking down the starches found in the intestine and preventing the excessive increase of blood glucose levels that take place after meals by delaying the absorption of glucose in the intestines. This medication is taken along with the very first bite of a meal. This medication also can be taken alone or in combination with other medications such as sulphonylureas. Side effects of this medication include gastrointestinal upset, flatulence, digestive problems, diarrhea and gas.

  Exenatide (Byetta) is responsible for stimulating the production of insulin. It is administered by injection, twice daily, within the hour before breakfast and dinner. Side effects of this medication include: weight loss, nausea and acute pancreatitis.

Meglitinides, Metformin, and Sulfonylureas

• Meglitinides, similar to Exenatides, also stimulate the production of the insulin in the pancreas. This medication is taken before each of your daily meals, three times daily. Side effects of the medication may include hypoglycemia. Medications come in the form of repaglinide (Prandin) and nateglinide (Starlix).

  Metformin on the other hand is responsible for decreasing the glucose output of the liver while increasing the glucose uptake of the muscles. It is taken one to three times per day. The extended-release formulation may be taken once a day. Side effects may include diarrhea, upset stomach, and nausea.

  Sulfonylureas also stimulates the production of insulin in the pancreas. It is taken once or twice per day, before meals. Side effects may include hypoglycemia.

Pramlintide Acetate, Sitagliptin and Thiazolidinediones

• Pramlintide Acetate (Symlin) is form of medication that is administered via injection. It may reduce a diabetic's insulin requirement. Side effects may include nausea.

  Sitagliptin (Januvia) also stimulates the production of insulin in the pancreas. It is taken once a day either with or without an accompanying meal. Side effects may include skin rashes and allergic reactions.

  Thiazolidinediones, also referred to as TZDs, enhance the activity of the body's own insulin found in fat and muscles. The drug also stimulates the reduction of glucose production in the liver. It may be taken with or without an accompanying meal. Side effects may include weight gain, water retention, bone fractures and congestive heart failure.