Sulfonylureas are used to treat people with Type II diabetes, people whose body is still producing at least some insulin. Some brand names include Amaryl, Glucotrol, Glyburide, Diabinese, Glipizide, Diabeta, and Micronase. Common side effects of sulfonylureas include allergic reaction for people who are allergic to sulfa medication, a slight cardiac risk, low blood sugar, weight gain and water retention. These medications should not be taken during pregnancy.
Meglitinides are also used to treat Type II Diabetes in which the body still produces some insulin. Some brand names of this category of medication are Prandin and Starlix. They stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin. Meglitinides work quickly and have a short duration of effectiveness.
The idea is to take the medication just before eating a meal so that the pancreas increases insulin production after eating, just as it would in a person without diabetes. Some side effects related to meglitinides use are headaches, diarrhea, nausea, constipation, pain in your joints or back, upper respiratory infections, and again, risk of low blood sugar and a slight risk for cardiac problems.
Biguanides include the popular brand names Metformin and Glucophage. Contrary to most diabetic medications these medications promote weight loss. They are often used in treating obese type II diabetics. Some side effects of biguanides include nausea, diarrhea, flatulence, a metallic taste in the mouth, anemia, vitamin B12 deficiency, decreased appetite or anorexia, and lactic acidosis. These medications are not recommended for use in people who have kidney or liver problems.
Thiazolidinediones are oral medications that work by causing the body’s cells to become more sensitive to insulin. Actos and Avandia are examples of this type of drug. Some side effects are headache, swelling in the ankles and legs, anemia and an increase in cholesterol. When on these medications, your doctor will recommend that you have a blood test every few months to monitor your liver for potential damage and monitor your cholesterol level.
Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors such as Acarbose and Precose work differently. They control diabetes by blocking the enzymes that you use to digest food. When food is digested at a slower rate, blood sugars do not rise as rapidly and this allows the body to better process that sugar. Side effects of Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors include bloating, gas, abdominal cramping and diarrhea. They do not however cause low blood sugar when taken alone, like most other oral diabetic medications.
As with all prescription medications, there is a chance they can react with other medications, both prescription and over the counter. Before beginning any new medications while be treated for diabetes, please consult your Doctor
