Diabetes refers to a medical condition in which the blood sugar levels frequently change. The Mayo Clinic website MayoClinic.com says that some symptoms of diabetes include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurry vision, extreme hunger and frequent infections. Some of its risk factors include having a family history, being inactive and being of African American, Hispanic, American Indian or Asian descent. Fortunately, some common drug treatments for diabetes exist.
Metformin
Metformin, typically sold as Glucophage, Fortamet, Riomet or Glumetza, refers to a medication that specifically treats type 2 diabetes, says Drugs.com. This type of diabetes occurs especially when the body is resistant to insulin, a hormone in the body that lowers blood sugar. Some people may develop headaches, weakness, diarrhea, stomach pain, gas or weakness while taking metformin. A couple of serious side effects include a fever, shortness of breath, rapid weight gain and body aches. It is imperative to call a doctor when metformin leads to these side effects. Having heart or liver disease may require a reduction in the dosage of metformin. This drug is a tablet taken daily or as a doctor prescribes.
Insulin Glargine
Insulin glargine, typically sold as Lantus, controls blood sugar levels. Drugs.com says that sometimes, taking too much insulin glargine can lead to hypoglycemia, a medical problem in which blood sugar levels become too low. Some symptoms of hypoglycemia include confusion, drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, blurry vision and a fast heartbeat. Sometimes, insulin glargine can also lead to redness, itching, swelling and skin thickening at the injection site. In addition, insulin glargine can result in hyperglycemia, a condition in which the blood sugar level is too high. Signs of hyperglycemia include nausea, increased urination, dry skin and a dry mouth. Insulin glargine is an injection given daily or as a physician prescribes.
Glipizide
Glipizide, typically sold as Glucotrol, is also another medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. Specifically, it reduces blood sugar. MedlinePlus says that glipizide's less concerning side effects include dizziness, hunger, weakness, nervousness, sweating and changes in behavior. Sometimes, glipizide leads to seizure, confusion and loss of consciousness. Taking such medications as tranylcypromine, prednisone and probenacid may require a decrease in glipizide's dose. This drug is available as tablet taken daily.
