Types Of Diabetes Medication In Australia

Diabetes is a serious chronic health condition that affects millions of Australians, and managing it can be a complex process. There are a number of different types of diabetes medication available in Australia, which can help to keep blood sugar levels in check and help manage the condition. This article will explore the different types of diabetes medications available in Australia, as well as the potential side effects and other considerations associated with them.

Oral Medication

Oral medications are one of the most common types of diabetes medication in Australia and can be used to treat type 2 diabetes. These medications work by helping to increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin, and can also help to reduce the amount of glucose produced by the liver and absorbed from food. Common types of oral medications include metformin, glipizide, glimepiride, and sitagliptin. These medications can have some side effects, such as nausea, diarrhoea, and headaches, and should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Insulin

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas which helps to regulate blood sugar levels. People with type 1 diabetes, or some people with type 2 diabetes, may need to take insulin injections in order to maintain their blood sugar levels. There are a number of different types of insulin available, including rapid acting, short acting, intermediate acting, and long acting. The type of insulin prescribed will depend on the individual’s needs and lifestyle, and should be discussed with a doctor.

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

GLP-1 receptor agonists are a relatively new type of medication that can be used to treat type 2 diabetes. These medications work by increasing the amount of insulin released by the pancreas and slowing the rate at which food is digested. Common GLP-1 receptor agonists include liraglutide, lixisenatide, and exenatide. These medications can cause side effects such as nausea, diarrhoea, and headaches, and should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

SGLT-2 Inhibitors

SGLT-2 inhibitors are a type of diabetes medication that helps to reduce the amount of glucose produced by the kidneys and can also help to increase insulin sensitivity. Common SGLT-2 inhibitors include canagliflozin and empagliflozin. These medications can have side effects such as dehydration, urinary tract infections, and yeast infections, and should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

DPP-4 Inhibitors

DPP-4 inhibitors are a type of medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. These medications work by increasing the amount of incretin hormones, which helps to reduce the amount of glucose produced by the liver and absorbed from food. Common DPP-4 inhibitors include sitagliptin and saxagliptin. These medications can have some side effects, such as nausea, diarrhoea, and headaches, and should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors

Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors are a type of medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. These medications work by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and absorbed from food. Common alpha-glucosidase inhibitors include acarbose and miglitol. These medications can have some side effects, such as nausea, diarrhoea, and flatulence, and should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Amylin Analogues

Amylin analogues are a type of medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. These medications work by increasing the amount of insulin released by the pancreas and decreasing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and absorbed from food. Common amylin analogues include exenatide and lixisenatide. These medications can have some side effects, such as nausea, diarrhoea, and headaches, and should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Side Effects and Considerations

It is important to be aware of the potential side effects and other considerations associated with each type of diabetes medication. Common side effects may include nausea, diarrhoea, and headaches, but can vary depending on the type of medication. It is important to speak to your doctor about any potential side effects and other considerations associated with the medication you are taking. Additionally, it is important to follow a healthy lifestyle and adhere to any dietary and lifestyle changes your doctor may recommend in order to manage your diabetes.

Conclusion

There are a number of different types of diabetes medication available in Australia, and choosing the right one for you can be a complex process. It is important to speak to your doctor about the different types of medications available and the potential side effects and other considerations associated with them. Additionally, it is important to follow a healthy lifestyle and adhere to any dietary and lifestyle changes your doctor may recommend in order to manage your diabetes.