Introduction

General Overview of Diabetes and Food

Food Groups and Diabetes

Eating for Target Blood Glucose Levels

Eating for Cardiovascular Health

Diabetes Medications

Resources and Recommended Websites

About the Authors

Test Your Knowledge

 

Diabetes Medications

What are oral glucose lowering medications?

A person with type 2 diabetes will often require one or more medications to keep blood glucose levels under control.  These medications are in tablet form and are taken by mouth on a daily basis.  There are six different classes of these medications, and they each work a little bit differently. 

• Sulfonylureas: Increase the amount of insulin made by the pancreas
• Meglitinide: Increase the amount of insulin the pancreas releases
• Biguanide: Decrease the amount of glucose made by the liver
• Thiazolidinedione: Increases the sensitivity of the body to insulin
• Phenylalanine derivative: Increases the amount of insulin the pancreas releases
• Alpha-glucosidase inhibitor: Slows down the rate of glucose absorption by the small intestine

Your doctor may also prescribe a combination medication, which contains two of these medications in one pill. 

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This document is a source of information only, and is not medical advice.