Millions of people across the United States suffer from type 2 diabetes, a chronic metabolic disorder that affects people of all ages, ethnicities, and genders. Diabetes occurs when the body either makes no insulin, or not enough insulin. This causes blood sugar (glucose) levels to be high. An A1C test (or glycated hemoglobin test) is used to diagnose the disease. Once diabetes has been diagnosed, treatment is needed immediately to lower blood sugar levels, and to prevent other diseases like stroke and heart disease.

Type II diabetes treatments vary according to the severity of the disease. Borderline diabetics, or people with pre-disease, are usually treated with oral medication, and healthy lifestyle changes (i.e., diet and exercise) are recommended. Whereas, the following drug-based treatments are prescribed to those who require medical treatment to control their diabetes:

1. Bydureon BCise

Bydureon BCise is an injectable medication that will help lower the blood glucose levels in most adults with type 2 diabetes. This medication is a type of GLP-1 receptor agonist, and is injected once weekly, slow-releasing doses of medication throughout the week to help lower blood sugar levels and slow digestion. This medication is often prescribed by doctors in addition to a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight loss. To learn more or to download a savings card for Bydureon, visit bydureon.com.

2. Insulin shots

Insulin injections are prescribed to patients who have uncontrolled diabetes. The insulin is typically injected under the skin from one up to three times daily depending on the blood sugar levels, and how they respond to the medication. Some people have more severe cases than others, and need more insulin shots to regulate their diabetes.

3. Metformin

Metformin is generally the first medication that a doctor will prescribe for Type 2 diabetes. It lowers the production of glucose in the liver, and improves the sensitivity that the body has to insulin. This is to help the body use insulin more effectively. Some side effects of metformin include nausea and diarrhea.

4. SGLT2 inhibitors

SGLT2 inhibitors are drugs that are used to prevent the kidneys from reabsorbing sugar in the blood. They help the sugar to be excreted in urine. This class of medication will help lessen the risk of heart disease and stroke. The more common side effects include vaginal yeast infections in women, low blood pressure, and urinary tract infections.

5. Diet and exercise

Sometimes, patients with type 2 diabetes can maintain healthy blood glucose levels with diet and regular exercise alone. However, many require insulin or other types of medication to achieve a safe and healthy blood glucose level. Many factors including the blood glucose levels, and other health conditions will help the doctor determine which treatment is best for each individual with type II diabetes. Sometimes the doctor may use a combination of the different types of treatments to help a patient gain control of their diabetes. There are some diabetes medication treatments on the market that may cause even more severe side effects including constant low blood sugar which could pose a danger if it happens too regularly. Always report unusual symptoms to your doctor immediately.