Drug Category

Brand and Generic Name

How it works 

Advantages

Disadvantages

Alpha-glucosidase Inhibitors

Glyset, Precose

Blocks the absorption of some carbohydrates in the intestine

Lowers blood glucose after meals, does not cause low blood glucose

May cause gas, bloating and diarrhea.

Biguanides

Glucophage

Helps the body use it's own insulin better: muscles use more glucose and the liver makes less glucose.

Does not cause low blood glucose, may help with weight loss and can improve blood lipids (fats).

Can't take if you drink alcohol excessively. Can cause nausea and diarrhea when started.

Meglitinides

Rapidly absorbed by the body. Can be used alone or with metformin.

Can cause blood glucose to get too low.

Thiazolidinediones

Actos, Avandia

Amaryl, Micronase, Glynase

Generic: Glyburide, Glipizide

Lowers blood glucose by helping the pancreas produce more insulin.

These are 2nd generation drugs with fewer side effects than older sulfonylureas.

Can cause blood glucose to get too low.