Diabetes Medications for Women: Understanding Today’s Treatments and What’s Right for You

November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect time to talk about something that impacts millions of women every year — diabetes and the medications that help manage it.

Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or just curious about all those new “weight-loss shots” making headlines, understanding how these treatments work can help you make empowered choices for your health.Let’s break it down in simple terms — what diabetes really is, how it affects women, and the top diabetes medications for women available today.

What Is Diabetes, Really?

Diabetes happens when your body struggles to turn food into energy. After you eat, your body breaks down food into sugar (glucose), which goes into your bloodstream. Your pancreas releases insulin — a hormone that helps move that sugar into your cells for energy.

If you have diabetes, your body either:

• doesn’t make enough insulin, or
  
• doesn’t use insulin effectively.
  

That means sugar stays in your bloodstream, which can lead to serious health issues for your heart, eyes, kidneys, and nerves over time.

The Main Types of Diabetes

• Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where your pancreas stops making insulin. People with Type 1 must take insulin daily.
  
• Type 2 Diabetes: Your body makes insulin but doesn’t use it well. This is the most common type and often linked to lifestyle and genetics.
  
• Prediabetes: Blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet in the diabetes range. The good news? With lifestyle changes — and sometimes medication — prediabetes can often be reversed.

New and Popular Diabetes Medications for Women

The world of diabetes care has changed a lot in the last few years. There are more diabetes medications for women today than ever before — and many can also help with weight management and heart health. Here’s an easy breakdown of the most common ones you might hear about.

Metformin (brand names: Glucophage, Glumetza)

What it does: Helps your body use insulin better and lowers the amount of sugar your liver makes.
Pros: Affordable, effective, and usually the first medication doctors recommend for Type 2 diabetes.
Cons: Can cause mild stomach upset or diarrhea for some people.

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists — semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound)

What they do: Help your body release insulin when needed, slow digestion, and reduce appetite.
Pros: Lower blood sugar, aid in weight loss, and some protect heart health.
Cons: Can cause nausea or constipation, and they’re not recommended during pregnancy. They can also be pricey without insurance.

Quick note: Semaglutide is approved under different brand names — Ozempic for diabetes, Wegovy for weight loss, and Rybelsus as an oral tablet. Tirzepatide is sold as Mounjaro for diabetes and Zepbound for chronic weight management.

SGLT2 Inhibitors — empagliflozin (Jardiance), dapagliflozin (Farxiga), canagliflozin (Invokana)

What they do: Help your kidneys remove extra sugar through your urine.
Pros: Help lower blood sugar, support modest weight loss, and protect heart and kidney health.
Cons: Can increase the risk of yeast or urinary tract infections.

DPP-4 Inhibitors — sitagliptin (Januvia), linagliptin (Tradjenta)

What they do: Help your body make more insulin after meals and lower sugar levels.
Pros: Easy to take, gentle on the stomach, and low risk of low blood sugar.
Cons: Not linked with weight loss and generally offer milder results than newer medications.

Insulin (multiple types and brands)

What it does: Replaces or supplements the insulin your body can’t make or use properly.
Pros: Essential for people with Type 1 and sometimes necessary for Type 2 diabetes.
Cons: Can cause low blood sugar or weight gain if not carefully managed; requires injections or pumps.

Women and Diabetes: What You Should Know

• Pregnancy and fertility: Not all diabetes or weight-loss medications are safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you’re planning to conceive, talk to your doctor early to adjust your treatment plan.
  
• Hormones and blood sugar: Menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause can all affect blood sugar levels — track changes and share them with your healthcare team.
  
• Mental health: Managing diabetes can be emotionally exhausting. It’s okay to ask for help, lean on community, or see a counselor — your emotional health matters too.
  
• Body image: Many women notice body changes while managing diabetes or using new medications. Remember, health is about feeling strong and well, not just a number on the scale.

Taking Charge of Your Health

If you’re living with diabetes, you’re not alone — and the treatment options have never been better.

This month, take time to:

• Schedule your annual blood sugar screening.
• Ask your doctor if one of the newer diabetes medications for women might be right for you.
• Support a friend or loved one who’s living with diabetes.

Managing diabetes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right care plan — and the right information — you can take control of your health, protect your heart and kidneys, and live the full, vibrant life you deserve.For more women’s health resources and support, visit foreverywoman.org.