Diabetes is a disease that requires management by both physician and patient. The physician can diagnose, prescribe, and educate, but without the patient's cooperation, optimum health cannot be achieved. Diabetes medications are designed to control blood glucose levels. The management of those medications should include glucose testing, diet compliance, and regular check-ups to ensure good health.
Choosing the proper diabetes medication is important for diabetes medication management. Diabetes medications impact individuals differently. Several medications may be tried before finding the combination that works best for each patient. Considerations when choosing the right mediation include successful blood glucose control, patient lifestyle, and cost.
Diabetes medication can interact with other medications, herbs, and supplements. Proper diabetes medication management should include full disclosure to the doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbs taken. Once the doctor is aware of all these, adjustments can often be made.
Maintaining all medication prescriptions at one pharmacy can help with diabetes medication management. If a patient fills different prescriptions at different pharmacies, each of the pharmacies may be missing important information about possible drug interactions. Moving all prescriptions to a single pharmacy and informing the pharmacy of any herbs or supplements also being taken can help a pharmacy manage the medications.
Diet plays a part in diabetes medication management. Patients who follow a nutritional plan designed for diabetics create the best foundation for medications to work. Low glycemic foods such as sweet potatoes and brown rice make it easier for medication to control blood glucose. Patients who adhere to good nutrition will typically have an easier time managing their diabetes.
Medication compliance is arguably one of the most important medication management guidelines for the diabetic to follow. If medications are not taken regularly, blood glucose fluctuations can get out of control. Taking the medications in the dosages prescribed and at the times prescribed ensures the patient will get the most benefit from them. Routine testing of blood glucose levels and adjusting medications as directed will also help reap the most benefit from the medications and set the stage for good health.
