Managing diabetes effectively involves more than just taking medications—it requires understanding them. Pharmacists are highly accessible healthcare professionals who can provide crucial support and education about your diabetes treatment. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been managing diabetes for years, asking the right questions can help you get the most out of your medications and avoid potential issues.
Remember that many pharmacies offer one-on-one consultations. This allows an individual with diabetes to get a review on all of their current medications so that they can use them most effectively. Some pharmacists are also Certified Diabetes Educators (CDEs). These are licensed healthcare professionals who can provide additional support with overall diabetes care.
Here are some important questions to ask the pharmacist:
What is this medication for?
Why is it being taken? Be sure that you understand the purpose of the medication and you know what results you can expect to see from it.
When should the medication be taken?
Are you able to take it at the same time as your other medications? Can you fit it into a regular routine of your day so that you remember to take it? Ask if the pharmacist can print out a medication schedule for you.
Is this medication safe to be used alongside other medications that are being taken?
Discuss all the prescribed drugs that are being taken, along with any over-the-counter (OTC) medications or herbal supplements that are regularly used. Certain diabetes medications cannot be taken with other medications or OTC medications/supplements, so make sure you ask your pharmacist to review all of your medications.
Should it be taken with food or on an empty stomach?
If the medication should be taken on an empty stomach, check how long the time interval should be after or before eating. Some diabetes medications need to be taken at specific times with respect to eating.
Where should the medication be kept?
Does it need to be refrigerated?
What about when traveling?
How should the medication be carried? Should it be kept cool?
Are there any restrictions to be aware of while this medication is being taken?
Ask whether any foods or activities should be avoided. Check whether alcohol or other drugs may be consumed. Should any medications be stopped before surgery or other types of tests?
How will you know if it is working?
How will you know if the drug is doing its job? Some diabetes medications can take weeks or months to reach its maximal effect, while others work almost immediately.
What are the possible side effects?
What should you do if these side effects occur? Check if any side effects would require emergency treatment. Certain diabetes medications require that you have a carbohydrate source with you at all times.
What should be done if a dose is missed?
Ask whether another dose should be taken or whether it is safe to skip the missed dose.
Should the medication be taken differently during illness?
Make sure you know what to do about your medication schedule if you become unwell.
How long will this diabetes medication be needed?
Is it likely to be needed over the long-term? Is there likely to be a move to a different or additional medication(s) at some point?
Is there a generic version of this medication?
See our article What’s the difference between a generic and a brand medication?
How should unused or expired diabetes medications be disposed?
Most pharmacies offer a medication disposal program where you can bring them back in to the pharmacy for proper environmentally-friendly handling of outdated or unused medication.
You may want to print these questions and take them with you. The more that is known about medication use, the more effective it becomes. Your pharmacist is a valuable resource for managing diabetes safely and effectively. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification. A better understanding of your medications empowers you to take charge of your health and prevent complications in the long run.
