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Understanding the role of insulin and other diabetes medications

Diabetes is a chronic medical condition with impaired glucose metabolism, the primary energy source for the body's cells. Insulin hormone is critical in regulating glucose levels in the body. In this article, we will understand the role of insulin and other diabetes medications in managing diabetes one by one in a very simple and easy to understand language.

Understanding the role of insulin and other diabetes medications
Understanding Insulin and other diabetes medications

Insulin hormone is produced by the pancreas and helps transport glucose from the bloodstream to the body's cells, which are used for energy. In the case of type 1 diabetes, people do not produce insulin. In contrast, in type 2 diabetes, people either won't produce enough insulin or are resistant to the insulin produced by the body. In both cases, insulin injections or other #diabetesmedications may be required to help regulate glucose levels in the body.

There are several types of insulin, including rapid-acting, short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting #insulin. Rapid-acting insulin is typically taken before meals to help control blood sugar spikes after eating. In contrast, long-acting insulin is taken once or twice a day to provide a steady baseline of insulin throughout the day.

Other #diabetes medications work in different ways to help regulate glucose levels in the body. These medications include:

  • Biguanides: This medication helps in two ways. First, they reduce the amount of glucose produced by the liver and, secondly, by improving the body's sensitivity to insulin. For example, Metformin.

  • Sulfonylureas: This class of medications helps stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin. For example, Glipizide, Glimepiride, and Glyburide.

  • GLP-1 receptor agonists: These medications regulate insulin production and reduce the amount of glucose the liver produces. For example Dulaglutide, Exenatide,Semaglutide, Liraglutide

  • DPP-4 inhibitors: These medications protect the hormone incretin that, stimulates insulin production only when needed and reduce the amount of glucose produced by the liver when not needed. Sitagliptin, Vildagliptin, Saxagliptin, Alogliptin, Linagliptin, etc

  • SGLT2 inhibitors: These medications reduce the amount of glucose being reabsorbed by the kidneys, allowing it to be excreted in the urine. Examples include Canagliflozin, Dapagliflozin, and Empagliflozin.

Note of caution:

It is crucial to work with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate diabetes medication regimen based on individual needs and health status. Proper medication management, a healthy diet, and regular physical activity can help #managediabetes and reduce the risk of complications.


In conclusion, insulin and other diabetes medications are critical in managing diabetes. Insulin helps regulate glucose levels in the body. At the same time, other medications work in different ways to help improve insulin sensitivity, stimulate insulin production, and reduce glucose production. It is vital to work with a #healthcare professional to determine the appropriate anti-diabetes medication regimen and practice proper medication management, a healthy diet, and regular physical activity to effectively manage diabetes.


Dr. Deepak Chaturvedi, MD Medicine

Diabetes, Thyroid, Hormones & Obesity Consultant




Disclaimer: This article is for education, understanding, and awareness of the different mechanisms of action of the above anti-diabetic medications. It does not comment on or confirm each medication group's FDA approval status and associated health warnings.


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