Common Medications for Lowering High Blood Sugar

Medications used to lower high blood sugar are generally divided into two categories: oral medications and non-oral medications. These drugs work in different ways to help control blood glucose levels effectively. Below is a detailed overview of each category:

Oral Blood Sugar Medications

Metformin (Biguanides): One of the most commonly prescribed medications for type 2 diabetes, metformin works by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and improving insulin sensitivity.

Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors: These drugs, such as acarbose and voglibose, slow down the digestion of carbohydrates in the intestines, which helps prevent spikes in blood sugar after meals.

Insulin Secretagogues: These medications stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin. They are further divided into sulfonylureas (e.g., gliclazide, glimepiride) and non-sulfonylureas (e.g., repaglinide), which differ in how they function and how long their effects last.

Insulin Sensitizers: Thiazolidinediones like pioglitazone and rosiglitazone help improve the body's sensitivity to insulin, making it more effective at lowering blood sugar levels.

DPP-4 Inhibitors: Drugs such as sitagliptin, saxagliptin, and alogliptin work by blocking the enzyme DPP-4, which breaks down incretin hormones that stimulate insulin production.

SGLT2 Inhibitors: These medications, including dapagliflozin and empagliflozin, reduce blood sugar levels by causing the kidneys to excrete excess glucose through urine.

Non-Oral Blood Sugar Medications

Insulin Therapy: Insulin is a vital treatment for many people with diabetes. Types of insulin include rapid-acting (e.g., aspart, lispro), long-acting (e.g., glargine), and intermediate-acting formulations. Insulin helps regulate blood sugar levels by allowing glucose to enter cells where it can be used for energy.

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: These injectable medications, such as exenatide and liraglutide, mimic the action of incretin hormones, which stimulate insulin secretion, reduce glucagon release, and slow gastric emptying. They are particularly effective for weight management and glycemic control.