Oral Medications For Type 2 Diabetes

Diabetes pills can help to manage your blood sugar. These pills are not insulin. They work to manage your blood sugar in several ways. You may be given a combination of medications. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.
Some pills may increase your risk for low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Watch for symptoms of low blood sugar. Call your doctor if low blood sugar occurs often.
Types of Diabetes Pills
Sulfonylureas
These pills help the body make more insulin. They are usually taken 30 minutes before a meal. Possible side effects include:
Hypoglycemia
Headache
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Alpha-glucosidase Inhibitors
These pills slow the digestion of sugars and starches. They can help keep your blood sugar from going too high after a meal. Take them with the first bite of each main meal. Possible side effects include:
Abdominal pain
Diarrhea
Excess gas (flatulence)
Thiazolidinediones
These pills help your muscle cells use insulin better. Your doctor may order lab tests to check the function of your liver before prescribing these pills and regularly while you are taking them. Possible side effects include:
Upper respiratory tract infections
Headaches
Weight gain
Swelling
Biguanides
These pills help control the amount of glucose in your blood. They do this by decreasing the amount of glucose made by your liver and helping your muscles use insulin more effectively. These medications are usually taken with each meal. Possible side effects include:
Diarrhea
Nausea
Vomiting
Abdominal bloating
Excess gas (flatulence)
Metallic taste in mouth
Meglitinides
These pills increase your insulin for a short period of time only when your glucose is high. They are usually taken before a meal. Possible side effects include:
Diarrhea
Headache
Low blood sugar
Slightly increased risk for heart problems
DPP-4 Inhibitors
These pills help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. They are less likely to cause hypoglycemia. They are taken once a day. Possible side effects include:
Upper respiratory tract infection
Stuffy or runny nose
Sore throat
Headache
Combination Pills
These medications may help keep your blood glucose within your target range. They also help your pancreas make more insulin and may help your muscles use insulin more effectively. Side effects depend on which type of combination you use. Your health care provider can tell you more.
Watch for Symptoms of Hypoglycemia
Headaches
Shakiness or dizziness
Hunger
Cold, clammy skin; sweating
A hard, fast heartbeat
Confusion or irritability