Helen Frankenthaler Foundation

Type 2 diabetes treatment

Type 2 diabetes treatments

Type 2 diabetes treatments

What is the main treatment for type 2 diabetes?

The main treatments for managing blood sugar levels if you have type 2 diabetes are:

  • Eating well and moving more
  • Weight loss
  • Metformin (usually taken as a tablet)
  • Insulin along with other medication that helps lower blood sugar levels
  • Other types of diabetes medicine that is injected or taken as tablets.
  • Weight loss surgery
  • Support with your emotional health

Using a flash glucose monitor or continuous glucose monitor can also make it easier for people with type 2 diabetes to monitor their blood sugar levels without having to do so many finger prick checks. This tech isn’t offered to everyone with type 2 diabetes. Find out if you may qualify for a flash glucose monitor or continuous glucose monitor on the NHS.

When do I need medication for type 2 diabetes?

Some people can manage their type 2 diabetes through healthy eating, being more active or losing weight. And some people have put their type 2 diabetes into remission through weight loss.

Medication may be necessary to put your blood sugar levels in the healthy range. And you may be prescribed diabetes medication that can also help keep your heart healthy. So you may be taking a combination of treatments.

Your healthcare team should consider what medication you are already taking, your preferences and make a shared decision with you about switching treatments or adding further medication.

Diabetes medications are safe but like many other medications they may have side effects or interact with other medications you’re taking. Because medicines can affect you in different ways,