Medications for Type 2 Diabetes
ICD-10: E11
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Sarah Chen, PharmD, BCPS
Clinical Pharmacist & Medical Reviewer
Last reviewed: March 19, 2026
Overview
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, accounting for 90–95% of all diabetes cases. It develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood glucose levels.
Treatment Overview
Treatment includes lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, weight loss) and medications. Metformin is the first-line drug therapy. Additional medications are added as needed to achieve blood sugar targets.
23
Total Medications
0
First-Line Options
5
Off-Label Uses
Off-Label Uses
Lovastatin
(Lovastatin)Off-LabelLOVASTATIN (brand name: Lovastatin) is a statin (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor). Indications and Usage Therapy with lovastatin should be a component of multiple risk factor intervention in those individuals with dyslipidemia at risk for atherosclerotic vascular disease. Lovastatin should be used in addition to a diet restricted in saturated fat and cholesterol as part of a…
Atorvastatin
(Lipitor)Off-LabelAtorvastatin (Lipitor) is the world's best-selling prescription drug and the most widely prescribed statin for lowering LDL ('bad') cholesterol and reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death. It is used for both primary prevention (in people without established heart disease but with risk factors) and secondary prevention (in people who have already had a heart attack or stroke). Generic atorvastatin is available for as little as $4–$25 per month.
Generic Available
Captopril
(Captopril)Off-LabelCaptopril is a medication belonging to a class of drugs called ACE inhibitors, primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It works by helping to relax blood vessels, which allows blood to flow more easily and lowers blood pressure.
Losartan Potassium
(Cozaar)Off-LabelLosartan potassium (Cozaar) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat high blood pressure, protect the kidneys in type 2 diabetes, and reduce the risk of stroke in patients with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy. Unlike ACE inhibitors, losartan does not cause a dry cough and carries a significantly lower risk of angioedema. It is also the only ARB with a clinically meaningful uricosuric (uric acid-lowering) effect, making it a preferred choice in patients with hypertension and gout.
Irbesartan
(Irbesartan)Off-LabelIRBESARTAN (brand name: Irbesartan) is a ARBs. 1 INDICATIONS & USAGE Irbesartan tablet is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) indicated for: • Treatment of hypertension, to lower blood pressure. Lowering blood pressure reduces the risk of fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events, primarily strokes and myocardial infarctions. ( 1.1 ) •…
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body destroys insulin-producing cells. Type 2 is characterized by insulin resistance and relative insulin deficiency, strongly associated with lifestyle factors and genetics.
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Medical Disclaimer
The information on RxGuide is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.