Medications

Oral Medications available in Australia

In Australia there are seven classes of medicines used to treat type 2 diabetes.

Medicines available:

1.    Biguanides
2.    Sulphonylureas
3.    Thiazolidinediones (Glitazones)
4.    Alpha-glucosidase Inhibitors
5.    Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) inhibitors
6.    Incretin mimetics
7.    Sodium-glucose transporter (SGLT2) inhibitors

Oral medications often need to be adjusted or reviewed and after many years on these agents some people require insulin therapy. The CDE and your GP work together in assessing when and if this will be required.

Insulin therapy

There are five different types of insulin available in Australia ranging from very short acting to intermediate or long acting. Insulin type is assessed based on the individuals needs and we aim to tailor insulin to fit into YOUR lifestyle. “Insulin starts” can be provided  at  O’Brien Healthcare  and these are carried out every day of the week. After hours support is also given with Shireen supplying her personal mobile number to ensure you feel supported and confident with your new care plan.

Insulin Pumps

An insulin pump is an alternative to manually injecting insulin. An insulin pump provides people living with Type 1 Diabetes a huge amount of flexibility and improved quality of life. Insulin is delivered from the pump through a thin tube, and then through a needle or catheter placed under the skin. In addition to not having to endure the  inconvenience that multiple daily injections can cause, pump users have more control of their insulin flow, dose adjustment, weight control and hypo prevention than do people taking injections. Today's insulin pumps are extremely safe, comfortable and easy to wear.
We are pleased to announce that as of May 2012 we are officially offering a pump service to the people of the Far North. Clients will need to see both our Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE) and our Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD)  prior to this service being confirmed; as preparation and suitability are paramount. The Endocrinologist will also be closely involved to ensure the best possible outcome long term.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring

24 hour glucose monitoring is now available and this product can be purchased or loaned for a one week period to suitable clients.