Starting a new diabetes treatment can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure of what to expect. You want to be confident that the medication you’re taking is the right fit for you, but knowing where to begin can be difficult. Talking to your doctor and asking the right questions can help ease these worries. Understanding the benefits, potential challenges, and how the medication fits into your daily life is essential for managing diabetes effectively. We spoke to our expert Dr Pranav A Ghody, Endocrinologist, Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central, who listed questions you can ask your expert before starting your diabetes treatment.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before Starting a New Diabetes Treatment
Benefits Of Medication
First, it's crucial to understand the expected benefits of the medication. Knowing how it will improve your blood sugar levels, alleviate symptoms, and prevent complications can keep you informed and motivated to stick with the treatment plan.
Managing Potential Side Effects
"Additionally, ask about the possible side effects and how to manage them. Being aware of these early on can help you address any minor issues before they escalate and ensure the medication is appropriate for your condition," said Dr Ghody.
Checking for Drug Interactions
It's also essential to inquire about potential interactions with your current medications. Some drugs may interfere with others, so understanding how they will work together ensures harmonious treatment.
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Risk of Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
"Similarly, ask if there is a risk of the medication causing low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), as certain drugs, such as insulin or sulfonylureas, may lower blood sugar too much. This knowledge will help you watch for symptoms and respond promptly," added Dr Ghody. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, the target blood sugar level, measured eight hours after eating, should be between 80 and 130 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).
Alternative Medications
In case you miss a dose, ask your doctor what steps to take—whether you should take the missed dose, skip it, or adjust your next one. Also, ask your doctor in case you need to discontinue the medicine, what is the alternative to prevent blood sugars from rising.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Considerations
For females in the reproductive age group (15-49 years), you should ask your doctor if the medicine can be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Also, don't forget to ask the next steps in case of an unplanned pregnancy.
Dosage, Timing, and Missed Doses
Understanding how and when to take your medication is critical as well. Knowing the correct dosage, timing, and whether to take it with food will support stable blood sugar control and optimise the medication's effectiveness.
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Blood Sugar Monitoring at Home
It's also important to discuss whether you should monitor your blood sugar at home and how often. Regular monitoring helps track how well the medication is working and allows for early intervention if needed.
Proper Medication Storage
Additionally, ask how to store the medication properly, especially if you're using injectable drugs like insulin or GLP-1 agonists that may require specific storage conditions to remain effective, especially during travel or dining out.
Staying Informed About New Treatment Options
“Recognising the symptoms that prompt you to contact your doctor is key to preventing serious complications. Early awareness allows you to seek help quickly if any issues arise. Finally, inquire about new advancements in diabetes treatment,” said Dr Ghody. Diabetes treatments are always evolving, and staying informed about new options can help you better manage your condition and determine if any innovative treatments might be suitable for you.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]