There are several types of diabetes medications available in Canada. Your doctor may also prescribe medications for other related conditions. These include both pills and injections.
Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is treated with insulin as well as dietary changes and exercise.
Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is managed with medications taken by mouth (pills) and/or injections (insulin or other injectable medications) or via a combination, in addition to healthy diet, exercise and weight loss. Medications help lower blood sugar levels. Some of the newer medications also help to protect the heart and the kidneys.
Learn more about oral medications for type 2 diabetes
Learn more about insulin and other injectables
Gestational diabetes
Some women will require insulin injections or oral medications to help control blood glucose levels during pregnancy.
Learn more about gestational diabetes.
Other medications
Other medications may also be prescribed such as cholesterol-lowering medications, blood pressure medications and antidepressants. There are also several vaccines that are recommended for people with diabetes.
Medication articles
What are insulin pumps and how do they work for diabetes management?Insulin pumps have been available in Canada for the treatment of diabetes since the 1980’s. For some people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, insulin pumps may be a welcome alternative to needles or pens.
Medication interactions with grapefruitGrapefruit and grapefruit juice have been associated with a number of drug interactions.
5 good reasons to stick with one pharmacyDo you use two or more pharmacies for your prescriptions?
Simplify your life with medication synchronizationDo you ever find yourself picking up medication prescriptions on different days? Did you ever wonder if you could arrange for your chronic medications to be picked up all at the same time?
I hope I will feel okay after starting insulinHas your healthcare team talked to you about adding insulin to your treatment regimen? Many people have different thoughts about starting insulin.
Once-weekly insulin: a new option for Canadians with diabetesDiabetes affects millions of people in Canada, and insulin therapy is often a central component of its management.
What's the rush for diabetes medications?Individuals who are newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes can expect to be placed on medications much more quickly than in the past.
What to do if drugs are left in the freezing cold?Most prescription drugs come with clear storage instructions. Depending on the specific medications, you may be advised to keep them in a cool, dry place or in the fridge.
How to overcome the fear of giving yourself an insulin injectionYearly flu shots, immunizations and injections are common situations that awaken needle fears. Some people report being worried about or frightened of receiving an annual needle. However, it is much more challenging to give yourself insulin injections as part of your daily diabetes management.
How does insulin fit into diabetes treatment?Insulin that is injected into the body is a replacement or supplement to your body’s natural insulin, and is used to treat both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
