What does OAD mean in HOSPITALS

An oral antidiabetic drug (OAD) is any type of medication taken by mouth and used to treat diabetes, a condition in which the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot properly use the insulin it produces.

OADs work by helping to regulate blood glucose levels in diabetics. Depending on the type of OAD prescribed, they may increase the amount of insulin released by the pancreas, decrease the amount of glucose produced by the liver, or slow down digestion so that more time is available for glucose absorption into cells.

Common side effects associated with taking oral antidiabetic drugs can include an increased risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach upset. Other potential side effects can include weight gain and swelling around your abdomen or feet. Q4: Can I take other medications while taking an Oral Antidiabetic Drug? A4: You should always talk to your doctor before starting any new medication while on an oral antidiabetic drug as certain medications may interact with each other and cause undesirable side effects. Additionally, some vitamins, supplements and herbal remedies may also interact with OADs so it is important to discuss any complementary treatments you plan on using with your doctor before beginning them as well. Q5: Are there alternative treatments to Oral AntiDiabetic Drugs? A5: Yes - There are a number of alternative treatments available for people with diabetes including lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy diet as well as non-medication therapies such as acupuncture and hypnosis. Ultimately what treatment regimen works best will depend on an individual's medical history and needs so it is important to discuss all options with a medical professional before making any decisions about treatment.