5 Diabetes Medicine Hacks That No-one Told You About

Often, doctors prescribe medicines that must be taken at specific intervals throughout the day. Now you may ask if taking all your prescribed medicines at a particular time is important. Well, the answer is YES! 

The first step in managing diabetes is taking all the prescribed medicines (both oral pills and insulin injections) on time and in the dosage recommended by your doctor. Missing doses of your medicines can lead to a spike in blood sugars which, if it happens frequently, can have harmful effects on important organs such as the kidneys, heart, nerves, eyes and brain.¹

Let us look at some common reasons why people miss their diabetes medicines and simple hacks to overcome this situation – 

1. Many patients assume that when their blood sugar reports are normal, they can stop their medicines. 

> If your blood sugar levels become normal because of medicines, stopping them can spike your sugar level again. Do not stop or modify your medicine doses unless advised by a doctor.

2. Many patients don’t remember to take their medicines on time.

Well, in that case, why don’t you try these – 

> Set reminders on your phone (they’re pretty helpful)

> Keep your pill box close, maybe on your dining table, so you don’t miss a dose after a meal. 

> Inform your family members about your dosage schedule.

> Mention the date on the strip so that you can track your regularity by checking empty slots in the strip. You can also get a pill-box organiser and never miss a dose. 

> Keep spare medicines in your handbag/wallet/car/office desk so you can have them even if you are out of your home.

> Keep a copy of your prescription while travelling away from home. 

3. People also fear the side effects associated with medicines. ²

> Some people may experience a few side effects related to their diabetes medicines. It is important to always consult your doctor if you experience such side effects. He/She will either help you manage them or prescribe an alternative medicine. By no means you should ever stop your medicines without the advice of your doctor.

It is important to always remember that the positive health outcomes of taking your medicines regularly on time outweigh the mild side effects that you may experience. 

4. Delay in purchasing your medicines can also cause a few days’ gaps.

> Always set reminders and buy your medicines at least 1 week before the current strip is finished.

5. Some patients cannot purchase all medicines because of financial constraints.³

> Taking medicines should be your priority to avoid far more expensive diabetes-related problems later. You can check for offers and buy medicines online. You can talk to your doctor about alternative brands that cost less.

It is worth noting that diabetes can be managed well with a healthy lifestyle, which includes taking your medicines on time, monitoring your sugar levels often, eating a balanced diet and regularly exercising. 

We wish you good health.  

References

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430900/
2. https://diabetes.org/healthy-living/medication-treatments/oral-medication
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25440507/

Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.

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