Starting diabetes medication: Your questions answered

Almost 1.3 million Australians live with type 2 diabetes, and many take medication to help live healthier, happier lives.^1,2

But it's a lot to process when you start a new medication, will it work, what are the side effects, how will you feel? Bupa GP Dr Janice Tan explains what you can expect, plus practical ways to support your health.

Not everyone who is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes will need medication. ³ Your doctor will make the best treatment and management plan for you. That is based on many things, including your age, gender, lifestyle and other health considerations, as well as how well managed your type 2 diabetes is.

This can change over time, and someone who did not require medication for type 2 diabetes may have to take it at some stage.

“Healthy eating and exercise remain the foundation, but for most people, they aren't enough on their own to keep blood glucose in a safe range because type 2 diabetes tends to progress over time,” says Dr Tan.

“Keeping glucose well controlled early substantially lowers your long-term risk of complications affecting your eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart and feet.”

There are different types of medication that are used to help treat and manage type 2 diabetes.

They all work to lower blood sugar by managing how your body makes insulin, manages glucose and digests food.⁴

The most common medication used for type 2 diabetes in Australia is metformin, which helps to lower blood sugar by changing how your body produces and absorbs glucose.⁵

GLP-1s are also commonly used in Australia to help manage type 2 diabetes. They work partly by slowing down digestion and reducing appetite, as well as blocking an overproduction of sugar in the liver.⁶

Another common medication for type 2 diabetes is insulin.

Your doctor may prescribe more than one type of medication to help manage your type 2 diabetes the most effectively.

Medication for type 2 diabetes is considered safe, but it’s important that you follow your doctor’s advice and take your medication properly. Side effects can occur and will depend on the type of medication you are taking.

If you experience any side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

“Don't stop a medicine on your own if something bothers you,” says Dr Tan. “There are plenty of alternatives, so tell your GP and they can adjust the dose or switch you to something that suits you better.”

“Many people do stay on medication long term⁷ because type 2 diabetes usually progresses, and needing more medication over time reflects the condition, not personal failure,” says Dr Tan.

“Remission is possible for some, particularly with substantial weight loss in the first few years after diagnosis, and some people can reduce or stop medication with their GP's guidance and regular HbA1c checks.”

Your doctor may recommend making changes to how you eat and exercise, as well as reducing any excess weight, to reduce your need for type 2 diabetes medication.

“Regular activity (aim for 30 minutes most days, plus some resistance exercise), a diet built around vegetables, whole grains and lean protein, good sleep and not smoking all improve how your body handles glucose,” says Dr Tan.

It is very important that if your doctor has prescribed medication, that you continue to take it until this advice changes.

Skipping medication can be harmful and impact how your body copes with type 2 diabetes.