Type 2 diabetes is a condition caused by high blood sugar levels. Specifically, the body no longer responds to the insulin made in the pancreas. Insulin is a hormone that reduces blood glucose levels. Symptoms of Type 2 diabetes include increased thirst or appetite, blurry vision, fatigue and frequent urination. Certain drugs can treat Type 2 diabetes.
Metformin
Metformin is a medication that can be used alone or in combination with other Type 2 diabetic medications. MedlinePlus says that it reduces the quantity of glucose that your liver makes and your body absorbs. It also makes the body more responsive to insulin.
Taking too much metformin can manifest as hypoglycemia, a condition of low blood glucose levels. Signs of this include shakiness, weakness, pale skin, a headache, dizziness and sweating. Metformin can also cause nervousness, changes in behavior and numbness or tingling around the mouth. Seizures, unconsciousness and confusion can result if hypoglycemia goes without treatment, according to MedlinePlus.
In some cases, taking inadequate amounts of metformin can result in hyperglycemia or high blood glucose levels. Hyperglycemia manifestations include urinating frequently, weakness, hunger and thirst. Diabetic ketoacidosis occurs when hyperglycemia goes without treatment. Diabetic ketoacidosis symptoms include diarrhea, gas, stomach or muscle pain and heartburn.
Metformin is a tablet that is typically taken two to three times a day with meals, according to MedlinePlus.
Glimepiride
Glimepiride is another oral (taken by mouth) Type 2 diabetic medication. MedlinePlus says that glimepiride induces the pancreas to make more insulin. In turn, it also makes the body susceptible to insulin.
Like metformin, glimepiride can lead to hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis. However, MedlinePlus says that glimepiride has also been associated with increased cardiovascular mortality (death due to heart problems).
Prior to taking glimepiride, tell your physician whether you are taking warfarin, dexamethasone, estrogen, isoniazid, phenytoin or prednisone. Glimepiride may be less effective when these drugs are also being taken. A simple dose adjustment of glimepiride may be necessary.
Glimperide is a tablet typically taken daily with food.
Rosiglitazone
Drug.com says that rosiglitazone is a medication that elevates your body's responsiveness to insulin. It also reduces the amount of insulin in the body. Like metformin and glimepiride, rosiglitazone can also lead to hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis. However, rosiglitazone may lead to fluid retention and this may worsen pre-existing congestive heart failure. Rosiglitazone, like metformin and glimepiride, is a tablet taken twice a day with or without food.
