There are several types of medicines that are often recommended for people with diabetes: insulin, pills that lower your blood sugar, blood pressure medicine, cholesterol lowering medicine, or a number of others. Many work together to help you lower your blood sugar levels, reduce your risk of complications and help you feel better.

 Your medicines come with specific instructions for use – and they can affect your body differently depending on when and how you take them.

BYOA: BE YOUR OWN ADVOCATE

The more you know about how to take your medicines and how to take all of your doses as prescribed, the better it will work for you, and the healthier you’ll stay. Here are some pointers to get the most from your medicines: 

• Know the names of your medicines, what they do and how and when to take
• Keep a current list of all your medicines with you at all times, including the name, strength and directions. An example would be "Aspirin 325mg, Take once daily."
• Always ask for clarification if you have any doubts about your
• Bring a list of the questions you have about your medicines to each visit with your diabetes care
• If you have problems fitting your medicines into your everyday life (work schedule, meals, activities) ask for help or suggestions to make your medication routine simpler to follow.

 Your diabetes care team can help you understand and keep track of your medicines.

• Ask your doctor - why this medicine was recommended for 

• Ask your diabetes educator to help you fit your medicine routine into your daily schedule. Be sure to bring all medicines, labels or photos of labels with you when you go to health 

• Ask a family member to go with you to an appointment and take notes about any medication Or, ask someone to remind you to take your medicines if you have difficulty remembering to take them.

STRATEGIES FOR REMEMBERING TO TAKE YOUR MEDICINES ON TIME

• Take your medicines the same time each Set a daily routine.
• Link your medicines with a current activity. For example:

       -  Place your medicines (or reminder) next to your tooth brush.

       - Put a glass of water next to your medicines so they are ready for your morning dose.

       - Place your prescription vials on the counter next to your toaster or breakfast plate.

       - Schedule reminders on your phone or have family or friends remind you. (You can do the same for them!)

       - Use pill boxes with daily compartments that you fill each week.

        - Place sticky notes on the refrigerator or in other strategic locations.