Need to Take Oral Hypoglycaemic Agents?
Oral hypoglycaemic agents are prescribed to decrease blood glucose levels and relieve symptoms when:
- A healthy lifestyle plan incorporating weight control, healthy eating and exercise lasting at least 6 weeks is not successful in controlling blood glucose levels
- The person has very high blood glucose levels (>20 mmol/L) or is symptomatic at initial diagnosis.
There are a range of oral hypoglycaemic agents:
- Metformin
- Sulphonylureas
- Acarbose
- Repaglinide
- Glitazones
- GLP-1 Agents (glucagon-like peptide).
National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS)
The Australian government subsidises diabetes-related products through the National Diabetes Services Scheme. The NDSS is administered by Diabetes Australia with outlets across the country and online. Eligible persons must register to use the scheme by completing the appropriate form and having it signed by their doctor.
Find out more about the NDSS.
Find out about NDSS outlets in Victoria.
References:
- Diabetes Australia and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, Diabetes Management in General Practice, 16th Edition 2010/11, Diabetes Australia, 2010.
