diabetes: medications

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

Take Your Diabetes Medicine Every Day

Insulin and diabetes pills are the two kinds of medicines used to lower blood glucose.

You need insulin if your body has stopped making insulin or if your body doesn't make enough. Everyone with type 1 diabetes needs insulin, and many people with type 2 diabetes do, too. Insulin can't be taken as a pill. You will give yourself shots every day or use an insulin pump. Insulin pumps are small machines that connect to narrow tubing, ending with a needle just under the skin near the abdomen. Insulin is delivered through the needle.

These are good places to give yourself insulin shots.

If your body makes insulin, but the insulin doesn't lower your blood glucose, you may need diabetes pills. Some pills are taken once a day, and others are taken more often. Ask your health care team when you should take your pills. Be sure to tell your doctor if your pills make you feel sick or if you have any other problems. Remember, diabetes pills don't lower blood glucose all by themselves. You will still want to follow a meal plan and exercise to help lower your blood glucose. Sometimes, people who take diabetes pills may need insulin shots for a while. If you get sick or have surgery, the diabetes pills may no longer work to lower your blood glucose.

Many people with type 2 diabetes do not need insulin or diabetes pills. They can take care of their diabetes by using a meal plan and exercising regularly.

NIH SeniorHealth
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

Last updated: 08 December 2004