Type 2 diabetes

What causes type 2 diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes occurs when blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high [1]. Insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas, helps glucose get into cells to be used for energy, and in type 2 diabetes the body does not make enough insulin or does not use it well [1]. It is the most common type of diabetes, and risk is higher after age 45, with a family history of diabetes, or with overweight or obesity [1]. NIDDK lists overweight and obesity, physical inactivity, insulin resistance, and genes as causes [1]. Nearly 9 in 10 people with type 2 diabetes have overweight or obesity [2].

Which GLP-1 medications treat type 2 diabetes?

Semaglutide is FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes as the injectable Ozempic and the oral pill Rybelsus; tirzepatide is FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes as the injectable Mounjaro [3]. Ozempic is also indicated to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease [4]. If not managed, diabetes can lead to heart disease, stroke, nerve damage, kidney disease, foot problems, and eye disease [1].