When you are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, your healthcare team will most likely tell you that the most typical initial treatment regimen consists of some mix of metformin and lifestyle adjustments such as diet and exercise.
This is a progressive condition that, if not treated properly, can lead to life-threatening complications. Here is a look at the various medications that can improve your health and help you manage your diabetes better.
Check out some of the top metformin alternatives
SGLT-2 Inhibitors
SGLT-2 inhibitors are oral drugs that can help reduce your glucose levels by assisting your body in excreting excess glucose in your urine. These medications can lower A1C levels, slow the progression of renal disease, and protect against heart disease.SGLT-2 inhibitors, on the other hand, are not recommended for patients who have already reached stage 4 or end-stage kidney disease.
Unlike other glucose-lowering medications, SGLT-2s have a low risk of hypoglycemia. SGLT-2 inhibitors like Farxiga, Invokana, Jardiance, and Steglatro are commercially available.
GLP-1 receptor agonists
Another form of glucose-lowering drug is GLP-1 receptor agonists, which can be taken orally or, more typically, by a once-daily or once-weekly injection. GLP-1 receptor agonists can reduce A1C levels and reduce the risk of heart and renal disease.
Perhaps most remarkably, using a GLP-1 receptor agonist can result in considerable weight loss. Adlyxin, Bydureon, Byetta, Ozempic, Rybelsus, Trulicity, and Victoza are currently available drugs in this class.
DPP-4 Inhibitors
DPP-4 inhibitors are a type of medication that can lower your blood sugar by preventing the production of glucagon, a hormone that causes your blood sugar to rise. This medication increases insulin production and reduces stomach emptying, making you feel fuller. Both of these effects aid in the reduction of glucose levels. These medications are taken orally and are frequently coupled with metformin to enhance the glucose-lowering impact. A DPP-4 inhibitor has a minimal risk of low blood sugar with metformin, but the risk is higher with insulin or sulfonylureas.
While DPP-4 inhibitors can lower your blood glucose, they have not been found to have the same effects on weight reduction and problems as the SGLT-2 and GLP-1 medication classes. DPP-4 inhibitors on the market include Januvia, Nesina, Onglyza, and Tradjenta.
Sulfonylureas
SFUs are a type of glucose-lowering drug that has been used to treat type 2 diabetes for many years. SFUs are effective at decreasing glucose and are available in less expensive generic versions, as they can dramatically raise your risk of low blood sugar and can cause an increase in weight. Given that other drug types can lower your glucose and prevent problems without increasing your risk of hypoglycemia, you must consult your doctor.
Thiazolidinediones
TZDs are another type of diabetes treatment that works by decreasing insulin resistance. TZDs, like SFUs, are less expensive and available in generic brands, but they can put users at risk for undesirable side effects such as weight gain and an increased risk of heart failure. Discuss these risks with your doctor to determine what’s best for you.
