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Diabetes Medications

For more information, visit our Medications section.

Currently there are five classes of oral diabetes medications, all of which help in lowering blood glucose levels. These different classes of diabetes medications can be used in combination or with insulin to achieve control the blood sugar.

Classes and actions of medications:

  • Sulfonylureas stimulate the pancreas to make more insulin. The second- and third-generation ones are the best.

  • Biguanides shut off the liver's excess glucose production

  • Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors slow absorption of carbs in the intestine

  • Thiazolidinediones increase the body's sensitivity to insulin

  • Meglitinides stimulate the pancreas to make more insulin

Class Generic Name Brand Name Comments How
Sulfonylureas Chlorpropamide
first-generation		 Diabinese Use with caution in the elderly. May cause lows With meal
Tolazamide
first-generation		 Tolinase May cause lows With meal
Glyburide
second-
generation		 Micronase
Diabeta
Glynase Pres Tab		 Take 1 to 2 times a day.
May cause lows		 With meal
Glipizide
second-
generation		 Glucotrol
Glucotrol XL		 Take 2 times a day or once with (XL).May cause lows 30 minutes before a meal
Glimepiride
third-generation		 Amaryl Take 1 time a day. May cause lows With meal
Biguanides Metformin Glucophage Not used with congestive heart, renal or liver problems. Check creatinine clearance if over 65 years of age. With meal
Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors Acarbose
Miglitol		 Precose
Glyset		 May have side effects in the gastrointestinal
tract.		 With first bite of food
Thiazolidinediones Rosiglitazone
Pioglitazone		 Avandia
Actos		 May reduce effectiveness of birth control pills.
Check liver enzymes as directed.		 Take at same time each day
Meglitinides Repaglinide Prandin Take with each meal. May cause lows Before meals

These medications along with a balanced diet and exercise plan help control blood glucose levels. Medications should be taken at the same time each day or as directed by a health care provider.