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
Insulin Use in the Management of Diabetes: 100 years of EvolutionThe two recent blogs about the discovery of insulin 100 years ago and the development of newer formulations and devices for insulin use, have underscored the initial lifesaving use of insulin. This blog will look at the evolution of the uses of insulin.
Insulin medication and device improvements over the yearsInsulin was first discovered in 1921. Since then, medical and technological advancements have made it even more effective for people with diabetes. Read this expert blog to learn about insulin improvements over the years.
100 years after the discovery of insulin: what does the future hold?Canadians have many claims to fame, but none are more important than the discovery of insulin in 1921. At a time when the diagnosis of type 1 diabetes meant a life of starvation and almost certain death, four scientists at the University of Toronto made a breakthrough that truly changed the world.
How can you take charge of your diabetes?People who have diabetes are encouraged to become the captain of their own ship. This means that you need to steer your diabetes management towards the goals you have set for yourself and work with all members of your crew, i.e. your diabetes healthcare team.
When basal insulin is not enough for managing your type 2 diabetesAre you using insulin to manage your type 2 diabetes? Are you reaching your blood glucose targets? You may wonder, what is next after insulin?
Insulin pump coverage in CanadaSeveral provinces in Canada cover the costs of insulin pumps for select groups of people with diabetes. Discover if you are eligible.
What medications are used to protect the kidneys?There are many things that can be done on a daily basis to manage kidney disease and reduce the risk of kidney damage, including taking medications.
Why is it important to get the flu shot this year?It’s always a good idea to get a flu shot, to protect yourself and those who you come in contact with. This year, in the face of COVID-19, it’s especially important that everyone – particularly people with diabetes – get the flu shot. Read on to learn about diabetes and the flu shot.
Top 5 reasons to get the flu shotWondering whether to get the flu shot this year? Stop wondering get the shot! Here are five great reasons.
Managing medications during a pandemicFor people with diabetes, who often require daily medication to manage their condition, ensuring that you have enough medication on hand during a pandemic is important. Read on to learn about pandemic medication management during the COVID-19 outbreak.
