Some people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar with changes in their diet and physical activity. However, many people also need medications, such as pills and/or insulin to keep their blood sugar in target range.
There are several different classes (or types) of diabetes pills. Each drug class targets a specific problem in type 2 diabetes.
Insulin
Taking diabetes medication is just one of the things you need to do to meet your blood sugar goals. Healthy eating and physical activity are also very important parts of your diabetes care plan.
In people with type 1 diabetes, the pancreas does not make insulin. People with type 1 diabetes need to take insulin to control their blood sugar. The amount of insulin must be balanced with food and activity.
In type 2 diabetes, many people find their pancreas makes less and less insulin over time. If you have been told you could benefit from insulin but have delayed starting it, you are not alone. Many people are concerned about injecting themselves, and wonder if the insulin will have side effects. However, people with diabetes often find that starting insulin is easy and virtually painless. Most also find that they have more energy and feel better. Insulin is given as an injection using a syringe or pen-like device, or an insulin pump.
