Q: What is the basic difference between extended release and sustained release medicines and which one is more beneficial? In the treatment of diabetes, are our old traditional medicines like fenugreek and bitter gourd useful? If yes, to what extent are these effective? I have recently been detected to have diabetes and my fasting blood sugar is 125 mg/dl.

A:There is no difference in terms of efficacy. Your Fasting Blood Sugar is marginally high but is not diagnostic of diabetes. You should get a post-meal test done. Even if you are diagnosed as diabetic, there is no need to rush into drug therapy. Diet and exercise are the first options and only when there is no improvement will it be necessary to take mdicines. Traditional remedies in natural form are quite effective. Bitter gourd was scientifically tested in UK and found to be effective.