Oral diabetic medications are most effective for patients with Type 2 diabetes with less than ten years of high blood pressure and who are of normal weight or obese. Though oral diabetic medications may be effective for years, eventually the patient may have to take insulin.

Sulfonylureas are diabetic medications that stimulate insulin production in the pancreas. Patients with allergies to sulfa drugs, or who do not have a functioning pancreas should avoid this diabetic medication. Side effects of this diabetic medication include low blood sugar, upset stomach, skin rashes, and weight gain. This diabetic medication is taken either once or twice a day.

Biguanides are diabetic medications that inhibit sugar production in the liver. This type of diabetic medication may also cause weight loss, which can improve blood sugar levels as well. Side effects of this diabetic medication include complications from alcohol use (more than 2-4 drinks a week), exacerbation of existing kidney problems, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Patients who are having surgery or dye tests should inform their doctors that they are taking this diabetic medication. This diabetic medication is taken three times a day.

Alpha-glycosidase inhibitors are diabetic medications that inhibit starch digestion, preventing blood sugar spikes after meals. Side effects for this diabetic medication include gas, bloating, and diarrhea, though these problems generally subside. This diabetic medication is taken three times a day.

Thiazolidinediones are diabetic medications that increase the sensitivity of cells to insulin, thus pulling glucose out of the bloodstream and into cells. Side effects for this diabetic medication include liver complications, low blood sugar when used in conjunction with other diabetic medications, diminishing effectiveness of oral contraceptives, weight gain, anemia, and swelling of the legs. This diabetic medication is taken either once or twice a day.

Meglitinides are diabetic medications that stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin immediately after meals. These diabetic medications work more quickly than other diabetic medications, allowing meals to be varied more than with other diabetic medications. Side effects of this diabetic medication include weight gain and low blood sugar. This diabetic medication is taken before each meal.