Medication for type 2 diabetes: what to know

Medicines can reduce glucose made by the liver, help the body respond to insulin, slow digestion or replace insulin when needed. Some are tablets and some are injections. Your clinician may adjust treatment over time using glucose checks and kidney tests. Hypoglycaemia is a possible concern with some treatments, especially when meals, activity or illness change.

Take medicines at the prescribed time and learn what to do if you miss a dose or cannot eat. Keep a source of fast-acting sugar if your clinician says your treatment can cause low glucose, and learn its warning signs such as sweating, shaking, hunger or confusion. Check your feet, stay hydrated during illness and discuss new supplements before taking them.

Seek urgent help for severe confusion, unconsciousness, breathing difficulty, repeated vomiting or very high glucose with marked thirst and frequent urination. A new hot, swollen wound can develop into Cellulitis and needs prompt attention. Sudden facial drooping, arm weakness or speech trouble may indicate Stroke and requires emergency help.

Ask what each medicine does, how to respond to low glucose, which tests are needed, and whether kidney function or weight changes should alter the plan.