Noninsulin Diabetes Medications.

Pharmacotherapy for diabetes has changed greatly owing to drugs and drug classes available. There are 11 classes of noninsulin diabetes medications available in the United States. With the use of 1 drug alone or in combination with different drugs, it is possible to improve glycemic control in patients with diabetes. Important properties of antidiabetic agents play a role in the choice of that particular medication for individual patients. Prescribing a diabetes medication regimen is based careful assessment of patient needs, and consideration of the medication's efficacy, impact on weight, hypoglycemia risk, potential side effects, cost, and patient preferences.