Which is better for diabetes: taking oral medication or insulin injections?

Feb 25, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, whether it is better for people with diabetes to take oral medications or inject insulin depends on the individual patient's specific condition. It is recommended that diabetic patients consult their doctors and follow medical advice when choosing treatment. Patients should also actively participate in their management by combining medication with a balanced diet, appropriate physical activity, and regular monitoring to maintain good blood glucose control and reduce the risk of complications.

Generally speaking, whether it is better for diabetic patients to take oral medications or inject insulin depends on the individual patient's specific condition. Diabetic patients are advised to consult their doctors and follow medical recommendations when choosing treatment. The details are as follows:

1. Oral Medications May Be Better

Oral medications are typically suitable for patients with mild to moderate diabetes. When blood glucose control is relatively good and has not yet reached the level requiring insulin therapy, oral drugs can help lower blood glucose through various mechanisms and improve insulin utilization, thereby maintaining a relatively stable blood glucose level.

2. Insulin Injections May Be Better

Insulin therapy is usually recommended for diabetic patients with poor blood glucose control, more severe disease, or insulin resistance. In such cases, patients may follow their doctor's instructions to use insulin injections, which directly supplement the body's deficient insulin and ensure that blood glucose levels remain within a reasonable range.

Patients should also actively participate in their treatment by combining medication with a balanced diet, appropriate physical activity, and regular monitoring to achieve good blood glucose control and reduce the risk of complications.