People living with diabetes may be prescribed medications to help control their blood sugar if diet and exercise alone aren't sufficient. Diabetic medications come in six different drug classifications which affect the body in different ways. Physicians work with patients to find the best medication regimen for their particular situation.
Sulfonylureas
Medications included in the sulfonylurea category are used to stimulate cells in the pancreas to create more insulin. These medications were first used in the 1950s and according to Life Clinic, were the only oral medications available to diabetic patients until 1994. Examples of sulfonylurea medications include Diabinese, Glucotrol and Amaryl. These medications may be taken once or twice per day as prescribed by a physician. Side effects associated with this classification include low blood sugar, increased weight and stomach irritation.
Biguanides
Metformin is a popular medication prescribed in the biguanide classification. These medications work by affecting the liver, decreasing the amount of glucose it creates. It also helps muscles become more susceptible to insulin, making it easier for the muscles to absorb and utilize glucose, notes the American Diabetes Association. Patients taking Metformin and other medications in this category may experience weight loss which can be beneficial. Side effects include stomach upset, weakness, dizziness and a metallic taste in the mouth.
Meglitinides
Like sulfonylureas, meglitinides work on the pancreas to increase insulin production. These medications are newer than others and act quickly allowing for more flexibility in meal times. Repaglinide is a generic medication in this category and is marketed under the brand name Prandin. These medications may cause issues with low blood sugar and weight gain. Meglitinides are only taken with meals, so if a meal is skipped, the dose is not taken to avoid low blood sugar.
Thiazolidinediones
Thiazolidinediones are a class of medications which help the body use insulin more effectively in the muscles and fat. It also affects the liver, reducing the glucose made there. Avandia is an example of a medication in this class. Patients taking these medications should be followed closely as some patients have had liver and heart complications, notes the American Diabetes Association.
Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors
Acarbose, Miglitol, Precose and Glyset are examples of medications classified as alpha-glucosidase inhibitors. These medications work differently than all the others, preventing and slowing the breakdown of starches and sugars in the intestines. The result is a slowed and decreased absorption of close into the blood. These medications are taken at the beginning of each meal, and may cause side effects mostly related to gastrointestinal problems such as loose stools and gas.
DPP-4 Inhibitors
Medications such as Januvia and Onglyza are DPP-4 inhibitors which are new to the market. This classification of drugs is the newest of all classifications. It works by impacting a compound in the body known as GLP-1 which lowers glucose levels in the body. GLP-1 is quickly absorbed, sometimes too quickly to adequately lower blood sugar. DPP-4 Inhibitors slows the breakdown of this compound, giving it more time to work to lower the blood sugar.
