Prediabetes

Medications

Most people with prediabetes get better results by making lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular exercise, than with diabetes medicine.⁷

However, a health professional may prescribe a biguanide, usually metformin (Glucophage), because it can reduce insulin resistance—especially in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. In some cases a health professional may prescribe thiazolidinediones (Actos or Avandia) to lower insulin resistance. Metformin is used much more frequently.

Ask your health professional whether diet and exercise are sufficient treatment or whether you should take medicine to lower your insulin resistance.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS	Last Updated: August 23, 2006
Medical Review:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine Jennifer Hone, MD - Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.