Navigating Diabetes Medication: A Crash Course for Patients and Loved Ones

Managing life with high blood sugar — whether you've just been diagnosed, have been living with diabetes for some time, or are trying to prevent it —can be challenging. 

Understanding your medication is an important step in taking control of your health, especially as you try to maintain your blood sugar levels, but it isn’t always easy when you may have to juggle multiple medications and side effects.

Laura Previte, RN, a certified diabetes nurse educator, helps us understand the different medications for diabetes and tips for managing your medications so you can stay consistent with your routine and reach your health goals.

“There have been a lot of advancements in diabetes medications over the years. Some that have been around for a long time continue to be a cornerstone of medication therapy such as metformin and newer options like GLP1s have been groundbreaking in the treatment of diabetes,” shares Laura. Understanding your medication can help you manage the disease better and empower you to understand how your body works, supporting optimal blood sugar levels.

There are three main types of medications used to manage blood sugar: oral medications, non-insulin injectables and insulin. You may start off with just oral medication and then need to add more as your condition progresses. Talk with your doctor about the different types of medications and your health goals so you can work together to find the right medication for you and your unique needs.

Common Oral Medications (By-Mouth)

Metformin

• Helps insulin work more effectively to lower blood sugar.

Glipizide & Glimepiride

• Tells your body to make extra insulin to help lower blood sugar.

SGLT2 Inhibitors (like Farxiga, Jardiance)

• Helps your kidneys get rid of extra sugar through your urine.

DPP-4 Inhibitors (like Januvia, Tradjenta, saxagliptin)

• Helps your pancreas keep making insulin after you eat.

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (like Rybelsus)

• Allows GLP- 1, a gut hormone, to help your pancreas release insulin longer after meals, lowering blood sugars.

Common Non-Insulin Injectable Medications

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (like Ozempic and Trulicity)

• Allows GLP- 1, a gut hormone, to help your pancreas release insulin longer after meals, lowering blood sugars.

GLP-1 and GIP Receptor Agonists (like Mounjaro)

• Allows GLP-1 and GIP, two gut hormones, to help your pancreas release insulin longer after meals, lowering blood sugars.

Common Insulin Options

Rapid-Acting Insulin

• Kicks in quickly to manage blood sugar spikes after meals.

Long-Acting Insulin

• Works steadily throughout the day to keep blood sugar stable.

Note: Additional types of insulin, such as short-acting and intermediate-acting options, may be recommended depending on individual needs.

Tips for Smooth Diabetes Medication Management

• Create a routine, set reminders, and put your medication where you will see and remember to take it (pill boxes, etc.).
• Always ask why certain medications are being recommended to you.
• Bring a loved one to your appointment, they can help take notes and remember important details.
• Keep an updated list of all medications and their doses on your person like in your wallet or phone.
• Make a list of questions ahead of your appointments.
• Talk to your provider if you are missing doses to help simplify your medication regime.
• All medications should be used in conjunction with physical activity and a healthy, balanced diet.

Most importantly, BE YOUR OWN ADVOCATE when talking with your doctor. It’s important to discuss your health goals, side effects and any challenges. You can make a plan together to ensure that your medication is helping you meet your goals. Share your goals and medications with your family so they can also help support you.