Meglitinides
Meglitinides are similar to sulfonylureas (they work by forcing the
pancreas to produce more
insulin). However, they are short-acting and are less likely to cause dangerously low blood sugar. They are usually taken before every meal. Meglitinides include:
Thiazolidinediones (Glitazones)
These medications work mostly by helping the body to use its natural insulin better. In addition to
Actos, there is one other glitazone currently available --
rosiglitazone (
Avandia®).
Alpha Glucosidase Inhibitors
These medications prevent the breakdown of sugar and carbohydrates in the digestive tract, slowing their absorption. These medications are used to decrease blood sugar levels after meals. These medications include:
Dipeptidyl Peptidase Inhibitors
This is a relatively new class of oral
diabetes drugs. Currently, there are two medications available in the group --
sitagliptin (
Januvia®) and
saxagliptin (
Onglyza™). These drugs increase incretin levels in the body. Incretin is a hormone that helps to control blood sugar.
Ergot Alkaloids
Bromocriptine works uniquely, compared to other
diabetes medications. It works as a dopamine receptor agonist, which means that it binds to and stimulates dopamine receptors. It is thought that stimulating dopamine receptors in the brain at certain times of the day "resets" the biological clock and improves metabolism. It is thought that seasonal changes in the metabolism of wild animals are due to similar mechanisms.
Combination Medications
There are a variety of combination medications available, including:
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