Best Cold and Flu Medicines—And What To Avoid

Control Your Blood Sugar Levels

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Metformin & Oral Meds

The liver both stores and produces glucose. Some type 2 diabetes medications limit the liver's ability to release glucose, helping to lower blood sugar levels.

Biguanides are taken twice a day. Metformin (Glucophage) is the only medication in this class and is often used as a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes. Metformin may cause diarrhea, but you can reduce this risk by taking it with food. (Metformin also improves insulin sensitivity. See below.)

Thiazolidinediones are taken once a day with or without food. Pioglitazone (Actos) is an example of a thiazolidinedione. 

Thiazolidinediones may increase the risk of heart problems in some people. You should speak with your doctor about whether these medications are safe for you. (Thiazolidinediones also improve insulin sensitivity. See below.)

DPP-4 inhibitors are taken once a day, before or after meals. Examples include:

sitagliptin (Januvia)

saxagliptin (Onglyza)

linagliptin (Tradjenta)

alogliptin (Nesina)

DPP-4s are typically safe and don't cause hypoglycemia when taken alone or with metformin.

GLP-1 agonists are most commonly taken as shots. Oral semaglutide (Rybelsus) is currently the only oral option. It should be taken once a day on an empty stomach.

Vitamin B12: Cure-all Or Placebo?

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