Type 2 diabetes mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a long-term metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels due to insulin resistance and relative insulin deficiency. It is the most common form of diabetes, affecting millions of people worldwide. The condition is often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, and poor diet.
The primary goal of managing type 2 diabetes is to maintain blood sugar levels within a target range, which helps prevent complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, and nerve damage. This is typically achieved through a combination of lifestyle modifications, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight loss, and medication.
Common medications used to treat type 2 diabetes include:

Metformin: This oral medication helps to reduce blood sugar levels by improving the body’s sensitivity to insulin. It is often the first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes.
Sulfonylureas: These oral medications stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin, helping to lower blood sugar levels. Examples include glipizide and glyburide.
Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors: These oral medications slow down the breakdown of certain hormones that help to lower blood sugar levels after meals. Examples include sitagliptin and saxagliptin.
Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors: These oral medications work by reducing the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, which helps to lower blood sugar levels. Examples include dapagliflozin and empagliflozin.
Insulin: In some cases, people with type 2 diabetes may require insulin injections to control their blood sugar levels. This is often reserved for individuals who cannot achieve their target blood sugar levels with oral medications alone.

Note that the appropriate medication and dosage will depend on the individual’s specific needs and circumstances. Healthcare professionals will closely monitor blood sugar levels and adjust treatment plans as necessary to ensure optimal management of type 2 diabetes.