Diabetes refers to a medical problem in which the blood sugar levels are constantly fluctuating. One moment, it may be high and the next, it may be low. MedlinePlus says that symptoms of diabetes include blurry vision, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and increased urination. Other symptoms of diabetes include hunger and weight loss. Fortunately, diabetic drug treatments exist to manage these symptoms.
Pioglitazone
Pioglitazone, commonly sold as Actos, is a medication used to manage type 2 diabetes, a condition in which the body becomes resistant to insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas that works to decrease blood sugar levels.
MedlinePlus says that pioglitazone's common side effects include muscle pain, a headache, a sore throat and a runny nose. Sometimes, this drug can lead to episodes of high or low blood sugar. Some signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) include dizziness, lightheadedness, shakiness, hunger, pale skin and jerky movements.
Some signs of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) include extreme hunger or thirst, frequent urination, blurry vision and weakness. Call a physician when these symptoms appear.
Pioglitazone's serious effects include seizures, confusion, loss of consciousness, yellowing of the skin or eyes, weight loss and visual loss.
A change in pioglitazone's dose may be needed when taking rifampin, montelukast, atorvastatin and ketoconazole.
Pioglitazone is a tablet taken daily.
Glimepiride
Glimepiride, commonly sold as Amaryl, is another medication used to manage diabetes. MedlinePlus says that glimepiride actually provokes the pancreas to produce more insulin.
Like pioglitazone, this drug can also lead to high or low blood sugar. It can also lead to dry mouth, reduced consciousness, shortness of breath and fruity smelling breath. Notify a physician when glimepiride leads to these effects.
Glimepiride can interact with such drugs as antibiotics, anticoagulants, diuretics, niacin or oral contraceptives.
Glimepiride is also available as a regular tablet taken each day.
Insulin Glargine
Insulin glargine, commonly sold as Lantus, is a medication used to lower blood sugar levels. Drugs.com says that insulin glargine's common side effects include a headache, hunger, confusion, difficulty concentrating, seizures, blurry vision and a fast heartbeat. These are all signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Eat candy or drink orange juice because they contain high amounts of sugar necessary to rapidly raise your blood sugar levels.
Taking albuterol, reserpine, clonidine and guanethidine with insulin glargine can mask the signs of low blood sugar.
Insulin glargine is available as an injection that should be given daily underneath the skin.
