There are three basic types of diabetic medicines. These include: insulin, oral medication, and other types of injectable diabetic medicines. Along with weight control, a balanced diet, and regular exercise, these diabetic medicines help you to control you blood sugar levels. Each diabetic is different, and therefore need different medications or different combinations of medication to keep their diabetes in check.
The type of diabetic medicines you are prescribed are going to depend largely on what type of diabetes you have. Your daily routine, your eating habits, and other health conditions you suffer from are also factors that are considered when your medications are prescribed. The most important type of medication for type 1 diabetics, and also some gestational and type 2 diabetics, is insulin. Insulin is a naturally occurring hormone in most people. It allows cells in the body to take in blood sugar and convert it into energy. The body cannot survive without it. Diabetics who take insulin either cannot produce insulin or cannot produce an adamant amount of the hormone naturally. So, it must be injected.
Type 2 diabetics normally take oral medications to help them control their blood sugar. There are several different types of these diabetic medications and according to the Mayo Clinic they work in one of the following ways:
- They stimulate the pancreas to reduce and release more insulin.
- They stop the production and release of glucose from the liver.
- They block the action of stomach enzymes which breakdown carbohydrates.
- They improve the cells reaction to insulin.
Finally, several types injectable medications, other than insulin that may be prescribed. These include medications such as Symlin, Byetta, and Victoza. They work by stimulating the release of insulin in the body and often bring about a healthy weight loss as well. These are not made to take the place of your insulin or any other medications prescribed by your doctor, unless otherwise directed.
Natural Diabetic Medications
Diabetic herbs, supplements, and other natural diabetic medications are also not meant as a replacement of treatment, but as tools to help you control your blood sugar. You should ask your doctor beforehand, however, because some diabetic medications may be effected by the supplements. St. John’s Wort is one such diabetes supplement that can be troublesome in this way.
Studies have shown that cinnamon can be highly effective in diabetes, however, if a patient eats too much and have liver or kidney damage cinnamon builds up and is not recommended. Ginseng is also used to treat diabetes, and works quite well, although it has been known to prevent blood from clotting. For these reasons and more, diabetics should speak to their doctor before making any changes in your dietary habits or diabetic medications.
