Glitazones (also: Thiazolidinediones)
The mode of action of these diabetes drugs is based on sensitizing the body cells to the effect of insulin, i.e. the blood sugar level is efficiently lowered because the cells respond very well to the insulin present. Rosiglitazone and pioglitazone, both representatives of the glitazones, are often combined with metformin or sulfonylureas as part of diabetes type 2 therapy to produce a more efficient insulin action. Side effects of these diabetes drugs may include weight gain and water retention in the tissue (edema). You can find more about edema under our topic: Edema
Insulin Secretagoga
Insulin secretagogues are substances that stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin. This substance group includes
- SulfonylureaThe sensitivity of insulin-producing pancreatic cells to glucose is increased, which stimulates the secretion of insulin. In type 2 diabetics whose pancreas still produces sufficient insulin, sulfonylureas are indicated for therapy if weight loss alone is not sufficient.
However, if the gland is no longer able to produce sufficient insulin, the effect of the sulfonylureas also diminishes; in this case, therapy with insulin must be started, possibly in combination with sulfonylureas. Since the risk of hypoglycaemia is a side effect of this antidiabetic group, regular food intake must be adapted to the medication. Other side effects include allergic reactions, blood count changes and digestive disorders.
- GlinideGlinide causes a short-term increase in insulin secretion from the pancreas after food intake.Here it is important to adjust the amount of medication to the amount of food, so that an optimal effect is produced for diabetics.
Glinides can be used as an alternative to sulfonylureas in type 2 diabetes therapy. They are also effective only if the islet cells are still capable of producing insulin. Risk of hypoglycaemia and digestive problems are possible side effects of glinide,
