Safe Use of Medications

Medications may be needed if diet and exercise do not control your blood sugar.

Oral Medications

It is important to take your medications as prescribed. Proper use of medications can lower your blood sugars and reduce your risk of complications. It is likely that you will need several medications to manage your diabetes. You may also be prescribed medications to lower your blood pressure and medications to lower your cholesterol.

Use medication minders to help you adhere to your medication management.

It is important to take your medications at the correct times of the day. Some medications may cause low blood sugar and should be planned with meals.

Keep you medications in a safe place away from children.

Insulin

Insulin must be taken at the correct time of the day. Rapid acting insulin must  be given with meals. Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can result if insulin is not taken correctly. Doses must also be accurate. It is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist to make sure insulin is taken safely.

Insulin needles should not be re-used. They should be thrown away properly. Check with your pharmacist for information about throwing away your needles.

Monitoring blood sugar is important when using insulin. Some insulin can lower blood sugar rapidly.  This can cause low blood sugar episodes.  Low blood sugar can be a serious complication of diabetes.

Insulin injection sites should be changed. This prevents scar tissue from developing.