Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by insulin resistance and a lack of insulin necessary for converting sugar to usable glucose in the body. Various medications ranging from insulin to oral medications can be used to help treat the condition. In addition, dietary changes, exercise and lifestyle modifications go a long way in improving the outlook for diabetics. Weight loss medications formulated for diabetics may also offer benefit to those struggling with weight management or weight loss.
Sulfonylureas
Many medications are available sulfonylurea drugs are a type of medication, taken orally to treat type-2 diabetes. These drugs are effective at managing diabetes by reducing blood sugar levels and encouraging the release of more insulin in the body. They can be taken alone or with other medications. Glocotrol, Micronase and Amaryl are name-brand medications that are available by prescription. Side effects vary and can include weight gain, nausea and diarrhea.
Thiazolidinediones
Thiazolidinediones are effective at improving insulin resistance. They work by making fat cells more sensitive to insulin and lowering sugar expelled from the liver. Avandia and Actos are name-brand drugs available in pill form. However, both of these medications may also cause weight gain, liver problems and elevated LDL cholesterol levels.
Weight Loss Drugs
Xenical Oral is a medication prescribed for use in obese diabetics. Its function is to help individuals shed excess weight in combination with diet and exercise. Weight loss reduces the risks of a host of conditions and can help those with diabetes better manage their condition.
Insulin/ Injections
Insulin and other injection medications are taken among diabetics with both type-1 and type-2 diabetes. For type-1 diabetics, insulin medications may be useful for replacing the insulin the body is unable to make. In type-2 diabetics, insulin may be used when other therapies are unsuccessful at regulating blood glucose levels.
Some drugs are given by injection, but are not insulin. The medications can be administered several ways. Injections applied under the skin by syringe or injection pen are options as well as insulin pumps that continuously infuse insulin through a catheter. Brand name injection medications include Symlin and Byetta. Side effects vary but can include weight loss, nausea and pancreatitis (a condition characterized by inflammation of the pancreas).
