Medication Tips

Adults with diabetes are at an increased risk for drug side effects and interactions, especially as the number of medications increases. For example, many common medications used to treat high blood pressure also raise blood glucose. Other drugs, either on their own or by interacting with oral diabetes drugs that lower blood glucose, can make diabetes remedies more potent and lower blood glucose to dangerous levels.

• When should I take my diabetes pills:
  before a meal, with a meal or after a meal?
• How often should I take the medicine?
• Should I take the medications at the same time every day?
• What should I do if I miss a dosage?
• What side effects may occur?

If possible, use the same pharmacy for all prescriptions. By having a complete record of all medications, the pharmacist can alert you and your doctor to possible interactions.

You’ll know medications are working if blood glucose readings fall within the recommended range. Generally, a blood sugar reading between 70 and 140 milligrams per deciliter before meals is desirable. Know how low or high blood sugar can go before it’s time to take action with medications.

Use a pillbox or another method to keep track of daily drugs. It is key that you take your medications every day as directed by your doctor. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before stopping any medications to avoid any additional health risks.

No one diabetes drug is best for every person, and what works for one person may not work for another. Your doctor can help you find the best diabetes medicines to meet your overall treatment goals.

Report any side effects to your doctor. Be sure to share key details including how long the side effects lasted, how severe they were, and what medications and dosages you were taking at the time.