Patients with diabetes use medications to help lower their blood sugar levels. Type 1 diabetes is treated with insulin. People with type 2 diabetes are more likely to require oral medications. There are many types of medicines for diabetes, each of which includes a specific FDA warning.
Metformin
Metformin is sold under the brand names Glucophage, Fortamet and Glumetza. According to the prescribing information for Glucophage, the FDA recommends warning patients of the risk of lactic acidosis. This is a rare side effect of metformin that can occur in patients whose kidneys do not function appropriately. Lactic acidosis can cause fatigue, muscle pains, low blood pressure and heart rate, as well as difficulty breathing.
Exenatide
Exenatide is an injectable medication for diabetes that is sold under the brand name Byetta. Warnings listed on the prescribing information approved by the FDA include acute pancreatitis, low blood sugar, gastrointestinal problems like slow stomach emptying and allergic reaction. It is not recommended for use in patients with kidney problems or kidney transplant due to the likelihood of side effects.
Thiazolidinediones
Thiazolidinediones are a class of diabetes medications that includes rosiglitazone and pioglitazone. They are sold as Avandia and Actos, respectively. In 2007, the FDA began requiring a warning on the prescribing information that indicates in increased risk of heart failure with these medications. The FDA recommends that health-care providers monitor patients for swelling and weight gain, which can be signs of heart failure.
Januvia
Januvia is a newer medication for diabetes. The generic name is sitagliptin. Warnings listed on the prescribing information include monitoring patients for severe allergic reactions and low blood sugar. Patients with kidney problems also may require a lower dose of Januvia.
Insulin
Insulin can be used by patients with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Most patients use insulin safely, however, the prescribing information often warns of low blood sugar and allergic reactions as potential problems that may occur.
