If diagnosed with diabetes type 2, medications aren't always necessary in the beginning if it can be controlled with diet and exercise. Having a good support system, such as family and friends who can help is also a big factor and keeping a close eye on your glucose. If your glucose isn't controlled with diet and exercise, then yes, medications would be necessary, which would possibly be started with an oral medication before injections of insulin. But most importantly would be to have regular checkups with your doctor to keep your glucose under control.