Antidiabetic drugs are given to control and lower blood sugar levels. Some of these medications are taken orally, while some are injected into the body fat or under the skin. Oral medications are best given to people with type 2 diabetes, and those having diabetes for less than ten years. People taking oral medications for diabetes may eventually take insulin later on.
Sulfonylureas
According to the American Diabetes Association, sulfonylureas are a common class of drugs given to diabetics, and have been in used since the 1950s. These medications trigger the pancreas to secrete insulin, a substance which helps lower blood sugar. However, if the pancreas cannot produce insulin anymore, these drugs will not work. These medications can cause weight gain, upset stomach, skin rash or itch. The primary side effect of sulfonylureas is hypoglycemia, or a lower than normal blood sugar level.
Metformin
Metformin, is a drug classified as a biguanide, and used to control blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes by preventing the liver to produce more sugar. Weight loss has been associated with this drug, and improves cholesterol levels at the same time. Patients with kidney problems should not take this medication. According to the American Diabetes Association, diarrhea can be a side effect, but improves when taken with a meal.
Radio Netherlands Worldwide reported on June 2, 2010 that Dutch researchers in Maastricht and Drenthe discovered that metformin, taken by many diabetes patients to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, can cause a vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 deficiency leads to fatigue, anemia and memory problems. Until this report, doctors assumed these symptoms were the result of the diabetes or old age and could not be treated.
Thiazolidinediones
According to the American Diabetes Association, thiazolidinediones work by causing the cells to become more sensitive to insulin, and decrease liver production of glucose These insulin-sensitive cells enhance the production of insulin-dependent enzymes, which move glucose from the blood to the cells for energy. These medications include rosiglitazone, pioglitazone and troglitazon, and may cause weight gain and swelling in the legs or ankles.
Meglitinides
According to the American Diabetes Association, meglitinides help stimulate the pancreas to make more insulin after meals and, therefore, lower the blood sugar level. This class of medications includes repaglinide, and nateglinide. They work fast and the body uses them quickly. The side effects include low blood sugar and weight gain.
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