### Medications for Diabetes Diabetes is a condition that leads to high levels of glucose (or sugar) in the blood. This happens when the body cannot produce or use insulin properly. Insulin is a substance that helps the body use the sugar from the food you eat. There are two types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. People with either type of diabetes need medications to help maintain normal blood sugar levels. #### Type 1 Diabetes For type 1 diabetes, the most common medication is insulin. If you have type 1 diabetes, your body cannot produce its own insulin. The goal of treatment is to replace the insulin your body cannot produce. Insulin is also used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It is administered by injection and comes in various forms, including: - Short-acting insulin - Rapid-acting insulin - Intermediate-acting insulin - Long-acting insulin - Combination insulins Another medication for type 1 diabetes is pramlintide (SymlinPen 120, SymlinPen 60), an amylinomimetic drug. It is an injectable drug used before meals that slows down the emptying of your stomach, reduces the secretion of glucagon after meals, and lowers blood sugar levels. It also reduces appetite through a central mechanism. #### Type 2 Diabetes If you have type 2 diabetes, your body produces insulin but does not use it well. Your body cannot produce enough insulin to keep your blood sugar levels normal. The goal of treatment is to help your body use insulin better or get rid of extra sugar in your blood. Most medications for type 2 diabetes are taken orally, but some are injectable. Some people with type 2 diabetes may also need insulin. Medications for type 2 diabetes include: - **Biguanides**: Reduce the amount of sugar your liver produces and help your muscles absorb glucose. The most common biguanide is metformin. - **DPP-4 inhibitors**: Help the body continue to produce insulin and reduce blood sugar without causing hypoglycemia. - **GLP-1 receptor agonists**: Increase the growth of B cells, the amount of insulin the body uses, reduce appetite, and slow stomach emptying. - **SGLT2 inhibitors**: Prevent the kidneys from retaining glucose, allowing the body to eliminate glucose through urine. - **Sulfonylureas**: Stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin. - **Thiazolidinediones**: Reduce glucose in the liver and help fat cells use insulin better. People with diabetes often need to take other medications to treat conditions common with diabetes, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Consult your doctor to determine which diabetes medication is best for you based on your type of diabetes, health, and other factors.