There are several different types of diabetic pills. Each category of pills works in a different way. The categories of pills, found on Webmd.com, that are generally prescribed by doctors for diabetes are as follows:

Sulfonylureas – These pills stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin by lowering blood sugar. They include Amaryl (glimepiride), DiaBeta (glyburide), Glucotrol (glipizide), Glucotrol XL (extended release), Glynas PresTab (glyburide), and Micronase (glyburide). Older, shorter acting drugs include Diabinese (chlorpropamide), Dymelor (acethexamide), Orinase (tolbutamide), and Tolinase (tolazamide). Side effects include hypoglycemia, upset stomach, skin rash or itching, and weight gain.

Biguanides – This category of pills are used to improve insulin’s ability to move sugar into cells, especially muscle cells. They prevent the liver from releasing stored sugar as well. They cannot be used by people with kidney damage or risk of heart failure. Drugs in this category include metaformin (Glucophage, Glucophage XR, Riomet, …