Diabetes: The 10p herb that causes a 'significant reduction' in blood sugar – add to meals

Insulin, however, is only usually offered when blood sugar levels are not lowered after taking metformin.

There may be side effects to taking diabetes medication, such as:

• Bloating and diarrhoea
• Weight loss or weight gain
• Feeling sick

Swelling in one or more parts of your body due to a build-up of fluid under your skin.

“If you feel unwell after taking medicine or notice any side effects, speak to your GP or diabetes nurse,” the NHS added.

Did you know you can get diabetes medication for free?

The NHS certified that diabetics are “entitled to free prescriptions” for diabetes medicine.