When Might You Need A Change In Your Diabetes Medication?

Managing diabetes is an ongoing process, and the plan that worked well a few years ago may not work as well today. You may need a medication change if you notice rising blood sugar readings, higher A1C results, frequent lows, bothersome side effects, or other changes in your health. Any of these can signal that your current plan needs a second look. 

 At Lawrence Family Practice Center in Lawrence, KS, our providers work closely with patients to keep diabetes care on track. Call today to discover more about our process and set up a visit. 

How diabetes affects your body 

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body uses sugar for energy. With type 1 diabetes, the body makes little or no insulin. With type 2, which is far more common, the body doesn’t use insulin well or doesn’t make enough. 

When uncontrolled blood sugar continues for long periods, it can damage blood vessels and nerves. Over time, this raises the risk of heart disease, kidney problems, vision loss, and nerve pain in the feet. Type 2 diabetes also tends to progress over time. A routine physical exam gives your provider a chance to spot any changes early. 

Signs you may need a change in diabetes medication 

Paying attention to how you feel and what your numbers show can help you catch issues before they become a problem. Common signs include:  

• Rising blood sugar readings: If your home readings keep creeping up even though you take your diabetes medication as prescribed, your dose may need to change. 
• Higher A1C results: This blood test shows your average blood sugar over about three months. A rising number often points to uncontrolled blood sugar. 
• Frequent lows: Shakiness, sweating, or confusion from low blood sugar can mean your current dose is too strong. 
• Bothersome side effects: Stomach upset, weight changes, or other side effects that interfere with daily life are worth discussing. 
• Changes in your health: Weight loss or gain, pregnancy, a new diagnosis, or new medications can all affect how well your treatment works. 

Remember: never stop or change your diabetes medication without talking to a healthcare professional first. Through careful medication management, your provider can adjust your dose, switch to a different option, or add another treatment. 

What a routine physical exam looks like 

A routine physical exam is one of the best ways to keep a chronic condition like diabetes under control. During your visit, we’ll check your blood pressure and weight, review your home glucose readings, and order lab work such as an A1C test. We may also check your kidney function and cholesterol, since diabetes can affect both. 

Your provider will check your feet for sores or loss of feeling and remind you about yearly eye exams. This is also a good time for medication management. We’ll review all your medications, ask how you’re feeling, and make changes if your numbers or symptoms call for it. Most patients with diabetes benefit from a visit every 3 – 6 months. Many patients rely on these checkups to stay ahead of uncontrolled blood sugar and the problems it can cause. 

Keep your diabetes care in Lawrence, KS on track 

Living with a chronic condition takes ongoing attention, and regular support makes it easier. At Lawrence Family Practice Center in Lawrence, KS, our providers offer personalized medication management to help you feel your best. Call today to learn more and schedule your routine physical exam.