What is type 2 diabetes, and which medications are used to treat it?

A chronic metabolic disease known as type 2 diabetes is characterized by elevated blood sugar levels that stem from both relative insulin deficiency and insulin resistance. People with type 2 diabetes either don't produce enough insulin or their body's cells become resistant to the effects of insulin, in contrast to type 1 diabetes, in which the body doesn't produce insulin.

Risk Factors

Type 2 diabetes can be more likely to develop for several reasons. Among them are:

• Obesity: Insulin resistance is more likely in people who are overweight, particularly in the abdomen area.

• Physical Inactivity: Insulin resistance and obesity can both be attributed to a lack of regular physical activity.

• Family History: The risk is increased if a close relative has type 2 diabetes.

• Age: Type 2 diabetes is more common as people age, particularly after the age of 45.

• Ethnicity: There is an increased risk for people from specific ethnic backgrounds, including African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders.

Symptoms

Type 2 diabetes symptoms can initially appear mild and develop gradually. Typical signs and symptoms consist of:

• Increased Thirst: One of the first symptoms of diabetes is frequently excessive thirst or polydipsia.

• Frequent Urination: Increased urination (polyuria) is a result of high blood sugar levels.

• Fatigue: Even after getting enough sleep, feeling exhausted and listless is normal.

• Blurred Vision: Elevated blood sugar levels can impact the eyes, leading to visual impairments such as blurred vision.

• Slow Healing: Cuts and wounds may heal more slowly than usual.

• Recurrent Infections: Skin infections, UTIs, and yeast infections could happen more frequently.

It is noteworthy that certain individuals with type 2 diabetes may not exhibit any symptoms, particularly in the initial phases of the illness. Consequently, it is advised to screen for diabetes regularly, especially for those who have risk factors. Diabetes complications can be avoided by detecting and treating type 2 diabetes early on.

Medications for Treating Type 2 Diabetes

Generally, medications to help control blood sugar levels are combined with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise to treat type 2 diabetes. The individual's overall health, the severity of their diabetes, and any pre-existing medical conditions all play a role in the medication choice. 

• Oral Medications

When treating type 2 diabetes, oral medications are frequently recommended as a first line of treatment. These drugs improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar through various mechanisms. There are some of the best medicine for type 2 diabetes, as follows:

1. Metformin

When treating type 2 diabetes, metformin is typically the first medication prescribed. It functions by lowering the liver's production of glucose and raising muscle cells' sensitivity to insulin, which facilitates the body's better utilization of insulin.

2. Sulfonylureas

Sulfonylureas help lower blood sugar levels by stimulating the pancreas to secrete more insulin. When metformin and lifestyle modifications are insufficient to control blood sugar, these drugs are frequently used.

3. DPP-4 Inhibitors

DPP-4 inhibitors work by blocking the action of an enzyme called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4), which increases insulin secretion and reduces glucagon levels, leading to lower blood sugar levels.

4. SGLT2 Inhibitors

SGLT2 inhibitors help lower blood sugar levels by inhibiting the kidneys' reabsorption of glucose, resulting in increased glucose excretion in urine. This helps to lower blood sugar levels and may result in modest weight loss.

• Injectable Medications

When oral medications are ineffective, injectable medications may be used to help control blood sugar levels. These medications are commonly used in conjunction with oral medications and insulin therapy.

1. Insulin

If oral medications alone are not sufficient to control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, insulin therapy may be necessary. Usually, an insulin syringe, insulin pen, or insulin pump is used to inject insulin beneath the skin. By promoting the uptake of glucose into cells, it lowers blood sugar levels.

2. GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

GLP-1 receptor agonists slow stomach emptying, increase satiety, decrease glucagon secretion in response to elevated blood sugar levels, and stimulate insulin secretion in response, all of which can lower blood sugar levels and possibly lead to weight loss.

To help people achieve and maintain ideal blood sugar control, these medicines are frequently prescribed in conjunction with other oral medications or insulin therapy. Patients with type 2 diabetes must collaborate closely with their medical professionals to create a customized treatment plan that meets their unique needs and objectives.