Over The Counter Medicine For Diabetes Type 2
Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. In the United States, more than 34 million people have diabetes, with around 90-95% of them being type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body loses its ability to use insulin properly, leading to high blood sugar levels. While there is no cure for diabetes, it can be managed with the help of medication, a healthy diet, and an active lifestyle. In this article, we will be discussing over the counter medicine for diabetes type 2.
What is Over The Counter (OTC) Medicine?
Over the counter (OTC) medicine is a medication that can be purchased without a prescription. These medications are often used to treat minor health problems and symptoms such as headaches, colds, and allergies. Over the counter medicine is widely available in pharmacies, drugstores, and supermarkets.
However, it is important to note that over the counter medicine should only be used as directed and for short-term relief. If you have a chronic condition such as diabetes, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any over the counter medicine.
OTC Medicine for Diabetes Type 2
There are several over the counter medicines that can help manage diabetes type 2. These medications include:
1. Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors
Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors are medications that slow down the digestion of carbohydrates, which helps to prevent spikes in blood sugar levels after meals. These medications are often taken before meals and include drugs such as acarbose and miglitol.
2. Biguanides
Biguanides are medications that improve the body's sensitivity to insulin and reduce the liver's production of glucose. These medications include drugs such as metformin, which is often the first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes.
3. DPP-4 Inhibitors
DPP-4 inhibitors are medications that help to regulate blood sugar levels by increasing the body's production of incretin hormones. These hormones stimulate insulin production and reduce the liver's production of glucose. These medications include drugs such as sitagliptin and saxagliptin.
4. SGLT2 Inhibitors
SGLT2 inhibitors are medications that help to lower blood sugar levels by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing glucose. These medications include drugs such as canagliflozin and dapagliflozin.
Conclusion
While over the counter medicine can be helpful in managing diabetes type 2, it is important to remember that these medications should only be used as directed and in consultation with a healthcare provider. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and medication prescribed by a healthcare provider are the best ways to manage diabetes type 2.