### Factors Your Doctor Considers for Type 2 Diabetes Treatment Managing type 2 diabetes involves various treatments, and your doctor considers several factors when recommending the best one for you. Here are some key points: 1. **Medication Options**: There are different classes of medications for type 2 diabetes. Metformin is often the first choice due to its effectiveness, safety, and low cost. Other medications include sulfonylureas, thiazolidinediones, GLP-1 receptor agonists, DPP-4 inhibitors, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, and SGLT2 inhibitors. Each has its own benefits and risks. 2. **A1C Levels**: Your A1C test results, which show your average blood sugar levels over the past three months, help determine the right medication. The goal is usually to keep A1C below 7%, but this can vary. 3. **Lifestyle Changes**: Diet, exercise, and weight management are crucial. A certified diabetes care and education specialist can help you make these changes. 4. **Other Health Conditions**: If you have other conditions like high blood pressure or high cholesterol, your doctor will consider these when choosing a diabetes treatment. 5. **Side Effects**: Potential side effects of medications, such as weight gain, low blood sugar, or gastrointestinal issues, are also considered. 6. **Insulin Resistance and Deficiency**: The degree of insulin resistance and deficiency affects treatment choices. Insulin may be needed if blood sugar levels are very high. 7. **Specialists Involved**: You may need to see various specialists, such as endocrinologists, dietitians, podiatrists, ophthalmologists, cardiologists, nephrologists, and mental health professionals, to manage different aspects of diabetes. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your treatment plan.