One of the primary methods for managing blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes include:
- Oral medication (often in tablet form) in combination with other medication either injected or taken orally to help reduce blood sugar levels.
Using a flash glucose monitor or continuous glucose monitor can facilitate blood sugar level monitoring for individuals with type 2 diabetes, reducing the need for frequent finger prick tests. This technology is not universally available to all individuals with type 2 diabetes. Check if you are eligible for a flash glucose monitor or continuous glucose monitor through the NHS.
In addition to medication and monitoring devices, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking can also help manage type 2 diabetes. It is important for individuals with type 2 diabetes to work closely with their healthcare team to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that best suits their needs.
When do I need medication for type 2 diabetes?
Some individuals are able to manage their type 2 diabetes by adopting healthy eating habits, increasing physical activity, or losing weight. Weight loss has also led to remission of type 2 diabetes in some cases.
Medication may be required to maintain blood sugar levels within a healthy range. Some diabetes medications may also support heart health. Therefore, a combination of treatments may be prescribed.
Your healthcare team will take into account your current medication, preferences, and collaborate with you to determine the best course of action, whether it involves changing treatments or adding additional medication.
While diabetes medications are generally safe, they, like other medications, may have side effects or interact with other drugs you are taking. Your healthcare team will discuss the optimal treatment plan and address any potential side effects.
Even if you are taking medication for type 2 diabetes, it is still important to maintain physical activity and follow a healthy diet to prevent complications associated with diabetes.
It is important to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly and communicate with your healthcare team if you notice any changes or have any concerns. Additionally, it is recommended to attend regular check-ups and screenings to monitor your overall health and the effectiveness of your treatment plan.
It is important to note that some of the common side effects of type 2 diabetes treatments include weight gain, gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and diarrhea, and the potential for hypoglycemia when taking certain medications like sulfonylureas or insulin.
In addition, some medications for type 2 diabetes can also increase the risk of urinary tract infections and genital yeast infections in both men and women.
It is crucial for individuals with type 2 diabetes to regularly monitor their blood sugar levels, communicate any concerning symptoms or side effects to their healthcare provider, and work closely with their healthcare team to adjust treatment plans as needed.
What is the fastest way to treat type 2 diabetes?
Can someone with type 2 diabetes be cured?
It is possible for individuals to achieve remission of type 2 diabetes through weight loss. While this can be life-changing, it is not a guaranteed outcome for everyone and does not equate to a cure. Regaining lost weight, for instance, can result in a return to diabetic blood sugar levels. Learn more about diabetes remission.
For individuals with type 2 diabetes or those at risk of developing it in the future (prediabetes), lifestyle modifications can play a significant role in lowering blood glucose levels. This can aid in diabetes management and potentially reduce the need for medication.
Lifestyle changes have the potential to lower blood glucose levels to a normal range and even lead to diabetes remission.
Actions to implement lifestyle changes include:
Gradually incorporating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains like wholemeal bread and oats, and legumes such as chickpeas and lentils. If adjusting your diet proves challenging, seek assistance from a GP or diabetes nurse to explore local support options.
Dedicating at least 2.5 hours per week to physical activity that raises your heart rate, or engaging in activities that promote weight loss if overweight. Quitting smoking is crucial, as the harmful effects are heightened in individuals with diabetes. Limiting alcohol consumption is also advisable.
Regular dental check-ups can aid in preventing gum disease. Avoid excessive consumption of processed foods high in salt and sugar, such as bacon, chips, cheese, sweets, and biscuits. Refrain from adopting a highly stringent, low-calorie diet without consulting a healthcare professional first, especially if you are taking insulin or other diabetes medications. Children with type 2 diabetes should receive specialized care.
Diabetes courses
Participation in diabetes courses is recommended for all individuals with type 2 diabetes to enhance diabetes management skills and confidence.
You should have access to a free course within a year of diagnosis. Online courses are also available for self-paced learning.
NHS services to help change your lifestyle
Individuals with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, may qualify for an NHS program designed to provide assistance. Consult your doctor or nurse about NHS eligibility:
Find out more
Medicine for type 2 diabetes
Metformin is commonly prescribed as a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes among various medications available.
In cases where metformin alone is ineffective in lowering blood glucose levels or in the presence of other health conditions, additional medication may be required in conjunction with metformin or a switch to an alternative diabetes medication.
If metformin or other diabetes medications do not produce the desired results, insulin therapy may be necessary. While typically used for type 1 diabetes, insulin can also be utilized for type 2 diabetes treatment. Insulin administration, whether via injection or pump, several times a day can help maintain blood glucose levels within the target range.
Adherence to the prescribed insulin dosage and schedule is crucial, as excessive insulin intake can lead to hypoglycemia. Seek medical advice if you experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or high fever while taking diabetes medication, as temporary suspension of medication may be necessary until recovery. Never discontinue medication without guidance from a healthcare professional.
Urgent advice: Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:
- If you are taking diabetes medication and experience symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or high fever
Appointments and tests
Regular check-ups are essential for individuals with type 2 diabetes to assess treatment efficacy and disease management:
- Monitoring average blood glucose levels through an HbA1c test every 3 to 6 months
- Undergoing a foot examination every 2 years if previous check-ups were satisfactory, or annually if necessary
- Annual assessment of weight, BMI, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and kidney function
Diabetic eye screening is recommended for you or your child (aged 12 years and over) at diagnosis and subsequently every 1 or 2 years under the NHS diabetic retinopathy screening scheme.
It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle by following a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and taking prescribed medications as directed by your healthcare provider. Keeping track of your blood sugar levels at home can also help in managing diabetes effectively. Additionally, staying informed about the latest developments in diabetes management and attending educational programs can improve your understanding of the condition and empower you to make informed decisions about your health.
Other changes you may need to make
Managing type 2 diabetes may involve additional adjustments, which include:
- Wearing a medical ID wristband in case of emergencies
- Ensuring medication is packed in hand luggage when traveling to ensure availability
- Obtaining a letter from your GP for travel purposes
If health issues arise due to type 2 diabetes or incidents of hypoglycemia occur, contact the Driving and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
Find out more
It is also recommended to carry snacks with you at all times in case your blood sugar drops unexpectedly. Additionally, be sure to inform your close friends and family about your condition so they can provide support when needed. Regular exercise and a balanced diet are essential for managing type 2 diabetes effectively.
Contraception, pregnancy and type 2 diabetes
For individuals with type 2 diabetes planning a pregnancy, early pregnancy planning is crucial. Steps typically include:
- Requesting a referral to a preconception clinic or a diabetes care team
- Modifying medications to ensure safety during pregnancy
Consult a healthcare provider regarding suitable contraception methods for individuals with type 2 diabetes, which may include the combined pill, progestogen-only pill, or intrauterine contraception.
A multitude of diabetes treatments are available to assist in managing the condition, with treatment plans personalized to meet individual needs. If a specific treatment is not suitable, it is important to consult your GP or healthcare team to find an alternative medication regimen.
Treatment approaches can vary based on the type of diabetes you have. Explore more information on different diabetes treatments below:
Additional details on various diabetes treatments can be found below:
Insulin
Insulin is a necessary medication for all individuals with type 1 diabetes and is sometimes prescribed for individuals with type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes, or other forms of diabetes.
Insulin plays a crucial role in managing blood sugar levels and preventing diabetes-related complications in the short and long term.
If assistance with self-injection is required, a helpful tutorial is available from Emma in the video below.
Metformin
Metformin stands out as a prevalent treatment for type 2 diabetes and may also be recommended for gestational diabetes management.
Belonging to the biguanide drug class, metformin can be utilized either independently to reduce blood sugar levels or in combination with other diabetes medications, including insulin.
Metformin is effective in reducing glucose release from the liver and enhancing insulin function within the body.
Diabetes tablets and medication
Diverse medications for diabetes, consisting of weight loss aids and SGLT2 inhibitors, operate in distinct ways.
Healthy eating
A well-balanced diet can assist in regulating blood sugar levels and sustaining a healthy weight in diabetes care.
Exercise
Engaging in physical activities such as running, swimming, stretching, or walking offers advantages in diabetes management.
Technology
The utilization of diabetes technologies like insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors is vital in handling the condition.
Weight loss surgery
Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, proves effective in achieving long-term remission of type 2 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes remission
There are several approaches to achieve remission of type 2 diabetes, maintaining blood sugar levels below the diabetes threshold without medication for at least three months.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapies have the potential to prevent the destruction of insulin-producing cells, which could halt or prevent type 1 diabetes.
Emotional support
Besides physical health, diabetes impacts emotional well-being, necessitating support to manage stress, depression, or burnout.
Is diabetes medication free on the NHS?
Individuals in England can access free medication treatment for diabetes with a prescription exemption certificate.
More information and support
For inquiries about diabetes treatments, feel free to contact our helpline at 0345 123 2399 for assistance.
In managing diabetes, insulin and diabetes medications are crucial, alongside healthy lifestyle choices and stress management.
What medicines might I take for diabetes?
The choice of diabetes medication varies depending on diabetes type, blood glucose control, existing health conditions, insurance coverage, and lifestyle preferences.
What type of diabetes do I have?
Type 1 diabetes
For effective management of type 1 diabetes, regular insulin administration multiple times a day in line with meal and snack intake is essential.
Type 2 diabetes
Lifestyle modifications can aid in controlling type 2 diabetes, but medications may be required to regulate blood sugar levels effectively.
Gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes during pregnancy can be managed with a combination of diet, exercise, and insulin if necessary.
Consistent intake of medication is paramount across all types of diabetes; consult with your healthcare provider to explore suitable medication and delivery options aligning with your lifestyle.
What are the different types of insulin?
Different types of insulin exhibit varying onset and duration times, with a combination of insulins used for tailored treatment.
Consult your healthcare provider to determine the most suitable medication options based on your lifestyle, diet, age, and absorption capabilities.
What are the different ways to take insulin?
The method of insulin administration differs based on one’s lifestyle and preferences, encompassing needle and syringe, insulin pen, or pump.
Needle and syringe
Varying injection sites for insulin can prevent tissue hardening; adhere to your healthcare provider’s recommendations regarding injection practices.
Self-administration of insulin shots involves drawing insulin from a vial into a syringe and administering the injection.
Utilizing an insulin pen, which resembles a writing pen with an injection needle, offers a convenient alternative. Some pens are prefilled and disposable, while others allow for the insertion and replacement of insulin cartridges. Many individuals opt for pens due to ease of use, albeit they are pricier than needles and syringes. Consider using a pen if you find syringe filling or reading markings challenging. Advanced pen features include memory functions or dose calculations for enhanced injections.
Insulin pumps deliver consistent insulin doses throughout the day through a small device connected to a tube and needle beneath the skin. Some pumps are tubeless and attach directly to the skin, controlled by a handheld device. These pumps can be programmed to adjust insulin delivery based on individual requirements, offering a convenient treatment solution.
Inhalation of powdered insulin through a device provides a needle-free option for adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Jet injectors administer insulin at high pressure to the skin, while artificial pancreas systems mimic a healthy pancreas’s blood glucose regulation. Incorporate medications, including oral treatments and injections, in conjunction with healthy lifestyle choices to effectively manage diabetes.
If medications and lifestyle alterations are insufficient for diabetes management, consider weight loss surgery or pancreatic islet transplantation. Participation in clinical trials can aid in exploring new treatment modalities and enhancing disease management practices.
[1] Types of insulin. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Updated March 25, 2021. Accessed January 24, 2022. www. cdc. gov/diabetes/about/how-to-use-insulin. html
[2] Wong EY, Kroon L. Ultra-rapid-acting insulins: how fast is really needed? Clinical Diabetes. 2021;39(4):415–423. doi:10.2337/cd20-0119
[3] Collins L, Costello RA. Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists. In: StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing; 2021. Updated June 25, 2021. Accessed April 21, 2022. www. ncbi. nlm. nih. gov/books/NBK551568
[5] Vilarrasa N, San Jose P, Rubio MÁ, Lecube A. Obesity in patients with type 1 diabetes: links, risks, and management challenges. Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome, and Obesity: Targets and Therapy. 2021;14:2807–2827. doi: 10.2147/DMSO. S223618
This content is provided as a service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), part of the National Institutes of Health. NIDDK translates and disseminates research findings to increase knowledge and understanding about health and disease among patients, health professionals, and the public. Content produced by NIDDK is carefully reviewed by NIDDK scientists and other experts.
The NIDDK would like to thank
Stuart A. Weinzimer, M. D., Yale University School of Medicine