Oral Diabetes Medications
Side Effects of Oral Diabetes Drugs
Side effects of first- and second-generation sulfonylureas include:
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
- Upset stomach
- Skin rash or itching
- Weight gain
Side effects for biguanide medications include:
- Upset stomach (nausea, diarrhea)
- Metallic taste in mouth
Side effects for thiazolidinediones are rare but may include:
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Liver failure
- Respiratory infection
- Headache
- Fluid retention
Side effects for alpha-glucosidase inhibitors include:
- Stomach upset (gas, diarrhea, nausea, cramps)
Side effects of meglitinides include:
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
- Stomach upset
Always take your oral diabetes medicine exactly as prescribed and discuss any specific concerns you might have with your health care provider.
WebMD Medical Reference
Is 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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