Type 2 Diabetes Medications
Jan 4th, 2010 by Giselle
There are 7 classes of diabetic medications commonly prescribed in Australia. This article examines the action of these drugs and their side effects. Hopefully, with this knowledge you can have a better understanding of the options available to you.
| Chemical Name | Brand Name |
| Biguanides
(Metformin) |
Diabex
Glucophage Diaformin Glucomet Novomet Formet Glucohexal Metformin BC |
Action:
- Increase uptake of glucose from the blood (taken with meal or after meal)
- Reducing glucose production by liver
- Mild appetite suppressant
Side effects:
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Upset stomach
- Metallic taste in mouth
| Chemical Name | Brand Name |
| Sulphonylureas | Diamicron
Diamicron MR Glyade Daonil Glimel Minidiab Melizide Amaryl |
Action:
- Stimulate pancreas to release insulin and lower blood glucose levels
Side effects:
- Weight gain
- Skin rashes
- Gastric upsets
- Jaundice
| Chemical Name | Brand Name |
| Alpha Glucosidase Inhibitor (Acarbose) | Glucobay |
Action:
- Slow down digestion of carbohydrates (taken just before meal)
Side effects:
- Flatulence
- Bloating
- Diarrhoea
| Chemical Name | Brand Name |
| Thiazolidinediones | Avandia
Actos |
Action:
- Increase effect of insulin (taken any time; slow onset, may take 1 to 2 months)
Side effects:
- Weight gain
- Fluid retention
| Chemical Name | Brand Name |
| Meglitinides | Novonorm |
Action:
- Stimulate pancreas to release insulin (taken before meal)
Side effects:
- Blurred vision
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea
| Chemical Name | Brand Name |
| Incretin Mimetics (Exenatide) | Byetta |
Action:
- Slows stomach emptying (injectable 1 hour before morning or evening meals; may be used with metformin, sulfonylurea, TZDs)
- Slow down release of glucose from the liver
- Increase insulin release
Side effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Feeling jittery
- Acid stomach
| Chemical Name | Brand Name |
| DPP4 Inhibitors (Sitagliptin) | Januvia |
Action:
- Slows down release of glucose from liver (taken orally any time; may be prescribed with sulfohylureas)
- Increase insulin released
Side effects:
- Respiratory tract infection
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Sore throat
- Headache
Always use your medications as directed. If you miss a dose or accidentally take two doses, monitor your blood sugar level closely. These medications are rarely prescribed for pregnant women with gestational diabetes. Insulin treatment is recommended when these medications cease to be effective.
