### Diabetes Medication and Side Effects Medications for type 2 diabetes offer many options to help control blood sugar levels (also known as blood glucose). However, sometimes a medication may not work, cause bothersome side effects, or not combine well with other medications you are taking. If your treatment is not working well enough or does not seem suitable, talk to your doctor. They may suggest changing your treatment plan. It's important to keep blood sugar levels within a healthy range. This reduces the chances of complications and helps manage other conditions that accompany diabetes. If your blood glucose readings tend to be very high with your current medication, your doctor may change your dose or add another medication. This can happen even if your medication worked well initially but no longer does so on its own. Sometimes, diabetes medications can cause blood sugar levels to drop too low, making you feel shaky, sweaty, dizzy, and confused. This condition is called hypoglycemia and can be dangerous. If it happens frequently, your doctor may need to reduce the dose or change your medication. Different types of diabetes medications work in different ways, each with its own side effects and potential interactions with other medications. Always ensure your doctor is informed about any medications you are taking. For example, metformin, a common diabetes medication, can cause temporary digestive issues. Rarely, it can lead to a serious condition called lactic acidosis. Sulfonylureas, another type, can cause low blood sugar and other side effects. Other medications like meglitinides, TZDs, and DPP-4 inhibitors have their own sets of side effects and interactions. Healthy lifestyle changes are also crucial in managing diabetes. Losing weight or starting a regular exercise program may require a lower dose of your diabetes medication or a different medication. Conversely, gaining weight or becoming less active may necessitate an intensified treatment plan. Always talk to your doctor before changing or stopping any medication. Do not stop taking any medication without your doctor's approval. If you need to start treatment for a condition other than diabetes, your doctor may want to adjust your diabetes medications accordingly.