Meglitinides
These
diabetes drugs are similar to sulfonylureas, in that they force 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 diabetes drugs work mostly by helping the body to use its natural insulin better. These medications include:
Alpha Glucosidase Inhibitors
These diabetes drugs 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 the newest class of oral diabetes drugs. Currently, there is only one medication available in the group --
sitagliptin (
Januvia®), although more medications in this group are currently under development. These drugs increase incretin levels in the body. Incretin is a hormone that helps to control blood sugar in the body.
Combination Oral Diabetes Drugs
There is a variety of combination drugs for diabetes available, including:
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