Common Diabetes Medications

Insulin

Insulin is essential for people with Type 1 diabetes and is also prescribed for some individuals with Type 2 or gestational diabetes. Insulin helps manage blood sugar levels and prevents serious health complications. In Kenya, insulin is often available in most urban health centers and pharmacies, but availability in rural areas can sometimes be limited. It is essential to ensure you have a reliable source of insulin if you need it.

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Metformin

Metformin is the most common medication prescribed for Type 2 diabetes in Kenya and worldwide. It is part of a drug class known as biguanides and works by reducing the amount of glucose (sugar) released by the liver into your bloodstream. It also helps improve the efficiency of the insulin your body produces. Metformin is also commonly used for managing gestational diabetes.

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Sulphonylureas

Sulphonylureas are another type of medication used to treat Type 2 diabetes. They help the pancreas produce more insulin and make your body’s insulin more effective. These medications are often prescribed when metformin is not enough or suitable for a patient.

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Alpha Glucosidase Inhibitors

Alpha glucosidase inhibitors slow down the absorption of carbohydrates (such as bread, rice, and ugali) in the digestive system, helping to reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes. Acarbose is the only drug in this category and may be prescribed if lifestyle changes and other medications aren’t enough to control your blood sugar.

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Prandial Glucose Regulators

These medications, also known as glinides or meglitinides, work quickly but for a short duration, helping your pancreas produce more insulin around mealtimes. They are particularly helpful if your blood sugar levels tend to rise sharply after meals.

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Thiazolidinediones

Thiazolidinediones (also called glitazones) help improve the body’s sensitivity to insulin. Pioglitazone is the main drug in this category and may be prescribed with other diabetes medications if your blood sugar remains too high.

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GLP-1 Agonists

GLP-1 agonists help increase insulin production and reduce glucose production in the liver. They are especially useful for people with Type 2 diabetes who need additional help controlling their blood sugar levels.

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DPP-4 Inhibitors

DPP-4 inhibitors, also known as gliptins, help protect hormones that stimulate insulin production, helping to lower blood sugar levels.

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SGLT2 Inhibitors

SGLT2 inhibitors work by helping your kidneys remove excess sugar from your body through urine. They can also help reduce the risk of heart failure, which is common in people with diabetes.

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Additional Medications for Diabetes Management

Weight Loss Medications

For individuals with diabetes and obesity, weight loss medications may be prescribed to help control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of complications. Losing just 5% of your body weight can significantly improve your health.

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Statins

Statins are a medication that help you lower the bad cholesterol in your blood and protect the insides of the artery walls. You usually take them as a tablet. 

Statins are often prescribed for people with diabetes because having diabetes increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. 

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Blood Pressure Medications

High blood pressure increases the risk of diabetes-related complications, such as heart attack and stroke. Blood pressure medications are commonly prescribed to people with diabetes, even if their blood pressure is within the normal range, to protect their kidneys and overall health.

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Is Diabetes Medication Free in Kenya?

Access to medication can sometimes be a challenge in Kenya, especially in rural areas. However, many essential diabetes medications, such as insulin and metformin, are subsidized in public hospitals and clinics. It’s important to speak with your healthcare team to ensure you have access to the right medication at the right time. In some areas, you may need to visit private pharmacies to get the full range of medications. Always check with your healthcare provider for the best way to access your treatment.

Final Thoughts

Managing diabetes in Kenya requires a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. It’s important to regularly consult with your healthcare team to review your treatment plan and make adjustments as needed. With the right combination of medication, diet, and exercise, many people with diabetes can lead healthy, fulfilling lives.