Non-Insulin Diabetes Injectables
continued...
Who can take it: This drug is only approved for people with type 2 diabetes.
What it does: After you eat, Byetta causes the beta cells of the pancreas to release insulin, which moves glucose out of your bloodstream and into your cells. It also reduces the production of a hormone called glucagon, which normally causes the liver to release stored sugar. And, Byetta slows the speed of digestion. Through all of these effects, Byetta can help you lose weight and get your A1C number back on track.
Side effects: Byetta's most common side effects are similar to those of Symlin, including nausea, diarrhea, headache, and vomiting. These side effects usually go away after the first month of treatment. Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) is another possible side effect. The FDA has also received reports of kidney failure in people treated with Byetta. In animal studies, Byetta is linked to thyroid cancer in some rats and mice, but experts still do not know whether it has the same effect in people.
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Liraglutide (Victoza)
What it is: Victoza is in the same class of drugs as Byetta, and it also acts almost identically to the hormone GLP-1. This once-daily drug helps your body release more insulin and move glucose from your bloodstream into your cells.
Who can take it: Victoza is approved for people with type 2 diabetes. You take it in combination with metformin or a sulphonylurea drug.
What it does: Victoza is similar to Byetta in that it causes the beta cells of the pancreas to release insulin, which helps control blood sugar. It also reduces the release of glucagon. Victoza can help control your weight and A1C number.
Side effects: The most common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and headache. Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) is another possible side effect. In animal studies, this drug is linked to thyroid cancer in some rats and mice, but it is not clear whether it has the same effect in people.
WebMD Medical Reference
Diabetes GuideIs This Normal? Get the Facts Fast!
Answer:
0-69
70-130
131+
Your level is currently
If the level is below 70 and you are experiencing symptoms such as shaking, sweating or difficulty thinking, you will need to raise the number immediately. A quick solution is to eat a few pieces of hard candy or 1 tablespoon of sugar or honey. Recheck your numbers again in 15 minutes to see if the number has gone up. If not, repeat the steps above or call your doctor.
People who experience hypoglycemia several times in a week should call their health care provider. It's important to monitor your levels each day so you can make sure your numbers are within the range. If you are pregnant always consult with your health care provider.
Congratulations on taking steps to manage your health.
However, it's important to continue to track your numbers so that you can make lifestyle changes if needed. If you are pregnant always consult with your physician.
Your level is high if this reading was taken before eating. Aim for 70-130 before meals and less than 180 two hours after meals.
Even if your number is high, it's not too late for you to take control of your health and lower your blood sugar.
One of the first steps is to monitor your levels each day. If you are pregnant always consult with your physician.
Did You Know Your Lifestyle Choices
Affect Your Blood Sugar?
Use the Blood Glucose Tracker to monitor
how well you manage your blood sugar over time.
This tool is not intended for women who are pregnant.
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