Type 2 diabetes is a condition where there is too much glucose in the blood. This is caused by a lack of sufficient insulin production and compounded by the inability of cells to absorb glucose from the blood. Type 2 diabetes medications work to stimulate insulin production, decrease glucose production, or increase cell absorption of glucose.

Type 2 diabetes medications include insulin which is a well known treatment for diabetes. Since the digestive tract interferes with the action of insulin, it must be given by injection. Insulin is self-administered using a needle and syringe or pen injector. Insulin is sometimes taken through a pump worn on the body that provides automatic delivery. Your physician, based upon your condition, customizes the type and amount of insulin you use. You may even take a combination of fast acting insulin and long lasting insulin. Insulin drugs include Humalog, Levemir, NovoLog, and Lantus.

Januvia is a different kind of type 2 diabetes medication. It is a DPP-4 inhibitor. This drug works by acting on a substance in the body called GLP-1. GLP-1 naturally reduces blood sugar but it gets broken down rapidly. Januvia delays the breakdown of GLP-1 so it can do the job of reducing high blood sugar levels.

Sulfonylureas are type 2 diabetes medications that have been in use for decades. These drugs are taken before meals. They stimulate the pancreas to release insulin. Sulfonylureas include Diabinese, Glucotrol, Amaryl, Glynase, Diabeta and Micronase.

Meglitinides are type 2 diabetes medications that work similarly to sulfonylureas. They are taken before meals and they cause the pancreas to release insulin. Brand names are Prandin and Starlix. Because these drugs cause insulin levels to rise, they can cause hypoglycemia.

Glucophage is in the class of drugs called biguanides. It helps lower blood sugar by limiting glucose production in the liver. Glucophage also works on the muscles to help them take more glucose from the blood.

Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors are medicines for type 2 diabetes that work by blocking breakdown of some sugars and starches. These drugs must be taken at the start of a meal; they slow the breakdown of table sugar, pasta and bread to prevent spikes in blood pressure. These drugs include Glyset and Precose.

Thiazolidinediones include the type 2 diabetes medicine Avandia and Actos. These work by reducing the production of glucose and helping muscles to absorb more glucose from the blood.

Medications for type 2 diabetes may be taken in combination with insulin or alone if they are able to control blood sugar levels. No one treatment regimen will work with everyone. Even those on an established treatment plan may have to adjust their medications when an illness or infection strikes.

Type 2 diabetes medications may have negative interactions if taken with other drugs, even over the counter medicines and supplements. Do not take any new medicine without consulting with your doctor first. It is important to take diabetes medication exactly as prescribed to avoid dangerous drops or spikes in blood sugar levels.