 |
| |
 |
|
Tablets For Type 2 Diabetes |
|
|
| |
|
This page gives a description of the main type of tablets used to treat type 2 diabetes.
|
|
|
 |
| |
|
Sulphonylureas |
|
|
| |
|
This group of tablets stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin. They are usually given to people of normal weight as they may stimulate weight gain. Sulphonylureas can cause hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar).
Examples are: Gliclazide, Glipizide, Glimeparide, Glibenclamide, Chloropropamide, Tolbutamide.
|
|
|
|
 |
|
Biguanides |
|
|
| |
|
The only tablet in this group is Metformin. It works by helping your body use insulin more effectively. It does not stimulate insulin secretion so does not cause hypoglycaemia. It does not stimulate weight gain. It may produce unpleasant side effects in some people such as gastro-intestinal upsets, nausea and diarrhoea.
|
|
|
|
| |
|
Acarbose (Glucobay) |
|
|
| |
|
This works by delaying the rate at which you digest sugars. The side effects may be wind, bloated feeling and diarrhoea. Acarbose can be used with other diabetes tablets.
|
|
|
|
 |
|
Repaglinide (Novonorm) and Nateglinide (Starlix) |
|
|
| |
|
These work by increasing the amount of insulin produced during a meal. Can be used with Metformin.
|
|
|
|
| |
|
Thiazolidinediones (Glitazones), Pioglitazone and Rosiglitazone |
|
|
| |
|
These do not increase insulin secretion but help insulin sensitivity. They can be used with either a sulphonylurea or Metformin but not with both and at present, not with insulin. If maximum oral therapy in whatever combination is not successful in maintaining good control of diabetes, insulin therapy may be advised.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
