Diabetic retinopathy, the most common and most serious eye complication of diabetes, is the term for damage to the tiny blood vessels (capillaries) that nourish the retina, the tissue at the back of your eye that captures light and relays information to your brain. These blood vessels are often affected by high blood sugar levels. Nearly half of known diabetics have some degree of diabetic retinopathy. While most initially experience only mild vision problems, the condition can worsen and threaten your sight. Until now, surgery was the only treatment for diabetic retinopathy. But new drugs are under development.

Diabetic neuropathies are a family of nerve disorders caused by diabetes. People with diabetes can, over time, have damage to nerves throughout the body. Neuropathies lead to numbness and sometimes pain and weakness in the hands, arms, feet, and legs. To relieve pain, burning, tingling, or numbness, the doctor may suggest aspirin, acetaminophen, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. A topical cream called capsaicin is another option. Tricyclic antidepressant medications or anticonvulsant medications may relieve pain in some people.

Diabetic foot ulcers are a major issue, particularly since they can easily become complicated by infection or gangrene, and may ultimately result in amputation. While treatment of diabetic foot ulcers has not made substantial progress, trials of new approaches continue. Two other approaches approved for diabetic foot ulcers are below.