A diabetes diagnosis is overwhelming, but here’s what you can do to stick to a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle.
From extreme fatigue to an upset stomach, the list of side effects of medications jammed in at the end of drug commercials can be overwhelming. And it might be why many people aren’t refilling their prescriptions. According to a review in the journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, a third of prescriptions for metformin aren’t filled. Researchers believe that the drug’s side effects, like gut problems, or frequent dosages are discouraging people from sticking to their medication.
If you’re skipping your prescribed diabetes medications—or know someone who is—work with your doctor or talk to them about finding an alternative treatment plan that sticks. There are lots of options, with more available every year.
Taking your prescribed diabetes medication is crucial to help prevent complications like eye, nerve, heart and kidney disease. And lifestyle upgrades are also crucial: exercising daily—10,000 steps—and avoiding the five food felons of added sugars and syrups, processed grains, sat and trans fats. You deserve better health and you have the power to make sure you get it.
Medically reviewed in July 2019.
