Diabetes Medications: How They Work

There are many types of diabetes medications which work in different ways to help you control your blood sugars. To lower risk of complications, the goal for most people with diabetes is to get to an A1C to less than 7 percent. A1C is a measure of blood sugar control over the previous 2–3 months.

Information to remember about diabetes medicines

Diabetes medicines help to lower high blood sugars. They do not take the place of healthy eating and exercise.
Know when and how to take the medicines. Do not skip a dose.
Wear a medical alert bracelet

Questions to ask your diabetes care team about your diabetes medications:

When do I need to take the medicine–before a meal, with a meal, or after a meal?
How often should I take the medicine?
Should I take the medicine at the same time every day?
What should I do if I forget to take my medicine?
What kind of side effects could I have and what symptoms should I look for?
How should I manage my medications when I am sick and can’t keep my food or drinks down as usual?

Tips to help you remember to take your medications

Everyone struggles with remembering to do things regularly. There are a number of ways that can help you remember. Below, check off things you might try:

Make a simple chart and post it in an obvious place where you will see it every day, like on the mirror in the bathroom.
Set an alarm clock or watch as a reminder.
Establish a daily routine for taking your medications, such as at bedtime, mealtime, or the beginning of a daily TV show, such as the evening news.
Use a pillbox that has sections, representing the days of the week.
Record taking your medications on a wallet card or calendar.
Can you think of others?