Effective Treatment of Diabetes Type 2 in Pakistan

Introduction

Type 2 diabetes affects 26.3% of Pakistan’s adult population, with over 33 million diagnosed cases. Clearly, this isn’t a small problem to ignore. Managing type 2 diabetes isn’t just about taking medicine. In fact, without the right lifestyle changes and proper sugar monitoring, many patients are unable to control their symptoms despite taking heavy medicines. In this blog, we’ll discuss some doctor-recommended strategies and awareness tips for the treatment of diabetes type 2 in Pakistan,

Causes of Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or fails to produce enough insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. In Pakistan, diabetes cases are rising due to high consumption of processed foods, lack of exercise, and increasing obesity rates. Other factors, like stress and poor sleep, can also make insulin resistance worse.

Unlike type 1 diabetes, which requires insulin right after diagnosis, the treatment of diabetes type 2 usually just involves medications and lifestyle changes.

Medical Treatments for Diabetes Type 2

Diabetes Medications and Anti-Diabetic Drugs

Metformin is the most commonly prescribed medicine for the treatment of diabetes type 2. This is because it is pretty affordable.

For some people, a single medication like Metformin is enough to control their diabetes. But as the disease progresses, combination therapy (taking two or more medicines) might be needed. For example, a doctor may prescribe Metformin with a Sulfonylurea or a DPP-4 inhibitor if blood sugar remains high.

Let’s look at a list of the most popular medical treatments for Diabetes Type 2:

1. Metformin (Glucophage®):

This medicine reduces glucose production in the liver and improves insulin sensitivity. It is widely available across Pakistani pharmacies.

2. Sulfonylureas (e.g., Glimepiride/Amaryl®):

Sulfonylureas stimulates insulin secretion from the pancreas. However, it also increases the risk of hypoglycemia.

3. DPP-4 Inhibitors (e.g., Sitagliptin/Januvia®):

DPP-4 inhibitors, like Sitagliptin, help your body make more insulin and lower blood sugar.

4. Insulin Therapy:

Human insulin (e.g., Mixtard®) and analog insulin (e.g., Lantus®). Analog insulin is 72.8% more expensive than human insulin, making it less accessible.

5. GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (e.g., Liraglutide/Victoza®):

GLP-1 receptor agonists not only lower blood sugar but also help with weight loss. However, they’re expensive, so not everyone can afford them in Pakistan.

Lifestyle Changes to Manage Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms

Patients can manage their type-2 diabetes symptoms with just some lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, and weight management.

Dietary Adjustments: 

What you eat plays a huge role in controlling diabetes. Foods rich in fiber, like whole grains and vegetables, help slow down sugar absorption, preventing spikes in blood sugar levels. Meanwhile, protein sources like fish, eggs, and lentils keep you full and reduce cravings.

Exercise: 

Try to walk briskly for at least 30 minutes a day—it helps your body use insulin better and keeps your sugar in check.

Weight Management:

Losing just 5 to 10% of your weight can make a big difference in controlling diabetes.

Monitor Your Progress in Treatment of Diabetes Type 2

During the treatment of diabetes type 2, it’s important to regularly monitor your sugar levels. Make sure that your blood sugar isn’t out of these normal levels:

• Fasting Blood Glucose: 80–130 mg/dL

• Postprandial (After Meals): <180 mg/dL

• HbA1c: <7%.

Did you know? Almost 6 out of 10 Pakistanis don’t check their HbA1c regularly, which can make diabetes harder to control."

FAQs

Q. What is a normal blood sugar level for Type 2 diabetes?
Fasting: 80–130 mg/dL; Postprandial: <180 mg/dL.

Q. Can Type 2 diabetes be cured with medication?
No, but lifestyle changes and medications can put the disease into remission.

Conclusion

Proper treatment of diabetes type 2 in Pakistan takes a mix of the right medicines, healthy lifestyle choices, and keeping track of your sugar levels. More awareness programs and affordable medicines are needed to help people in Pakistan fight diabetes effectively. But the first step starts with you.If you have diabetes, consult a doctor to create a personalized treatment plan that works for you. Remember, managing diabetes is a lifelong journey—but with the right habits, you can lead a healthy, active life.