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Type 2 Diabetes

Medications used to manage blood sugar in type 2 diabetes.

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a disease where your blood sugar levels are too high. Glucose is the main source of energy for your body, and insulin, a hormone made by your pancreas, helps move glucose from your blood into your cells. In type 2 diabetes, your body may still produce insulin, but your cells do not respond to it properly, causing glucose to remain in your blood.

Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes

Symptoms of type 2 diabetes can develop slowly over several years and may be mild, making them easy to overlook. Common symptoms include feeling very thirsty, feeling very hungry, urinating more often, fatigue, blurry vision, numbness or tingling in the feet or hands, sores that do not heal, and losing weight without trying. Some people may not notice any symptoms at all.

Causes and Risk Factors

Type 2 diabetes is caused by several factors, including lifestyle choices and genetics. Being overweight or having obesity, not being physically active, and having a family history of diabetes can increase your risk. Other factors include being over age 35, having prediabetes, and certain health conditions like high blood pressure.

Why It Matters if Untreated

High blood glucose levels over time can lead to serious health conditions. Managing your diabetes is important to prevent these complications.

Treatment for Type 2 Diabetes

Managing type 2 diabetes often involves lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting regular physical activity. Some people may also need to take prescription medicines to help manage their blood glucose levels.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience symptoms of diabetes or have risk factors, it is important to see a healthcare provider. They can perform glucose blood tests to diagnose diabetes.

Medications used to treat Type 2 Diabetes

Several classes of medication treat type 2 diabetes. Which is right depends on your health — that is a decision for you and your provider. Compare prices and coupons on any of them:

Biguanides

Biguanides help lower blood sugar levels by decreasing glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity.

Compare prices: Metformin Hcl Er, Metformin Hcl Er Mod, Metformin Hcl Er Osm

Sulfonylureas

Sulfonylureas stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin, which helps lower blood sugar levels.

Compare prices: Glimepiride, Glipizide, Glyburide

DPP-4 Inhibitors

DPP-4 inhibitors work by increasing incretin levels, which help regulate insulin and glucose levels in the body.

Compare prices: Alogliptin Benzoate, Alogliptin Metformin Hcl, Alogliptin Pioglitazone

Thiazolidinediones (TZDs)

TZDs improve insulin sensitivity and help lower blood sugar levels by acting on fat and muscle cells.

Compare prices: Pioglitazone Hcl, Pioglitazone Hcl Glimepiride, Pioglitazone Hcl Metformin Hcl

Alpha-glucosidase Inhibitors

Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors slow down the absorption of carbohydrates in the intestines, helping to control blood sugar levels after meals.

Compare prices: Acarbose, Miglitol

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Frequently asked questions

What are the symptoms of type 2 diabetes?

Symptoms may include feeling very thirsty, feeling very hungry, urinating more often, fatigue, blurry vision, numbness or tingling in the feet or hands, sores that do not heal, and losing weight without trying.

What causes type 2 diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is caused by several factors, including lifestyle factors like being overweight or not physically active, as well as genetic factors.

Who is more likely to develop type 2 diabetes?

You are at higher risk if you are overweight, over age 35, have a family history of diabetes, have prediabetes, or certain other health conditions.

How is type 2 diabetes treated?

Treatment often involves lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular physical activity. Some people may also need to take prescription medicines.

When should I see a doctor about diabetes?

You should see a healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of diabetes or have risk factors for the condition.

Compare prices for type 2 diabetes medications

25 medications — select one to compare prices and coupons.

Condition information adapted from MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Medication list sourced from RxClass (MED-RT, U.S. National Library of Medicine). Inclusion does not imply a medication is right for you.

Medical disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a licensed physician, pharmacist, or other qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

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