Diabetes Treatment

Medical Author: Ruchi Mathur, MD
Medical Editor: William C. Shiel, Jr., MD, FACP, FACR and Jay W. Marks, MD

• How is diabetes treated?
  • Medications for type 2 diabetes
    • Sulfonylureas
    • Meglitinides - (Prandin and Starlix)
    • Medications that decrease the amount of glucose produced by the liver
    • Medications that increase the sensitivity of cells to insulin (Actos and Avandia)
    • Medications that decrease the absorption of carbohydrates from the intestine (Precose)
    • New medications that effect glycemic control (Symlin and Byetta)
    • DPP-IV inhibitors
    • Combination medications
  • Treatment of diabetes with insulin
  • Different methods of delivering insulin
    • Pre-filled insulin pens
    • Insulin pump
    • Inhaled Insulin
    • Intranasal, Transderm
• The future of pancreas transplantation
• Diabetes main article including causes, symptoms, complications, and diagnosis

How is diabetes treated?

The major goal in treating diabetes is to minimize any elevation of blood sugar (glucose) without causing abnormally low levels of blood sugar. Type 1 diabetes is treated with insulin, exercise, and a diabetic diet. Type 2 diabetes is treated first with weight reduction, a diabetic diet, and exercise. When these measures fail to control the elevated blood sugars, oral medications are used. If oral medications are still insufficient, treatment with insulin is considered.

Adherence to a diabetic diet is an important aspect of controlling elevated blood sugar in patients with diabetes. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) has provided guidelines for a diabetic diet. The ADA diet is a balanced, nutritious diet that is low in fat, cholesterol, and simple sugars. The total daily calories are evenly divided into three meals. In the past two years, the ADA has lifted the absolute ban on simple sugars. Small amounts of simple sugars are allowed when consumed with a complex meal. For more, please read the Diabetic Diet article.

Weight reduction and exercise are important treatments for diabetes. Weight reduction and exercise increase the body's sensitivity to insulin, thus helping to control blood sugar elevations. For more, please read the Weight Loss and Fitness articles.

Next: Medications for type 2 diabetes »

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From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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Last Editorial Review: 11/14/2007