Diabetic medications with cardiovascular benefits

What is Diabetes

• A medical condition characterised by high blood sugar.

Three types of diabetes

• Type 2 diabetes, the most common type, is when the body is still producing insulin but in insufficient amounts.
• Type 1 diabetes, which occurs in 10% of the population, is when insulin production is completely absent.
• Prediabetes is a medical condition where individuals have higher blood sugar levels but not within the diabetic range. It is subdivided into
  • Impaired fasting glucose tolerance, and
  • Impaired fasting glucose

Medications and treatment

• Metformin decreases the production of glucose in the liver and increases the body's sensitivity to insulin. It also improves blood vessel function, liqid control and weight loss. 
• SGLT2 inhibitor targets novel pathways, which increases the excretion of glucose through urine. It also exerts cardiovascular benefits through better blood pressure control, relaxation of arteries, protects the kidneys and has weight loss benefits.
• GLP-1 receptor agonist stimulates insulin production and delays gastric emptying. It also improves blood pressure control, blood vessel function, reduces inflammation and assists in weight loss.