The importance of medication management and diabetes

(ARA) - Nearly 24 million Americans have diabetes, and as most people with diabetes know, fluctuating levels of sugar in the bloodstream can be dangerous. Because many people with diabetes also have other conditions, like high blood pressure and high cholesterol, they often need to manage multiple medications.

CVS Pharmacist, Paul Magno, answers questions about diabetes treatment and how managing medications can lead to a healthier life.

Q: What medications are commonly used to treat diabetes?

A: Medications used to treat diabetes include insulin and glucose-lowering pills. People with type 1 diabetes, which typically begins in childhood, cannot make their own insulin, so daily insulin injections are needed.

Type 2 diabetes, which typically begins in adulthood and is the most common form of diabetes, may respond to treatment with diet and exercise, as well as glucose-lowering pills and insulin. Different groups of oral medications are often combined or used along with insulin. No single type of medication works for all patients, so you should work with your doctor and pharmacist to find a diabetes medication regimen that fits your needs.

Q: Why is managing medications especially important for people with diabetes?

A: Diabetes is a leading cause of death in the United States. Keeping your blood glucose in the recommended target range can prevent or delay the long-term health problems caused by the disease. Maintaining your medication, whether it is insulin injections or oral medications, along with exercise and a healthy diet, is critical to treating diabetes effectively and living well with the disease.

Q: Is there any danger of interactions when taking diabetes medications?

A: Most people with type 2 diabetes take oral medications or a combination of oral medications and insulin injections. In general, diabetes treatments are safe and effective. But like other drugs, they must be used with care, and you should always talk to your pharmacist about all the medications you are taking before you begin any new medication or over-the-counter treatment.

Q: Are there any additional guidelines for taking diabetes medication?

A: Many diabetes medications should be taken at certain times of the day. For example, some work best if they are taken 30 minutes before a meal, while others should be taken with the first bite of a meal. These are important details to know, so remember to consult with your pharmacist about when to take your specific medications in order to assure the best efficacy.

Taking the right pills at the right times in the right doses can be a difficult task, so it's important to get organized. A pill organizer can be a handy way to keep track of medications. Once you are organized and have incorporated your medications into your daily routine, it'll be easier to remember to take them.

If you are interested in learning more information about medication management and diabetes, visit www.cvs.com/diabetes.

Courtesy of ARAcontent