In 2021, one study found that the average patient with diabetes was on 6.7 medications (plus or minus 2.5) to help with diabetes management. Diabetes is a complicated condition and comes with a wealth of side effects.
These side effects can lead to the need for more medications for diabetes management. Pretty soon, it can start to feel like you’re a walking pharmacy, and your entire budget is going towards paying for your meds.
The medications for diabetes management go beyond just insulin. Keep reading to learn about the lesser-known diabetes medications you may need and how to pay for them.
Common Complications and Risks
Living with diabetes can come with its fair share of complications and risks. Diabetes management requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond insulin alone.
By understanding the risks associated with diabetes, you can take steps to prevent or reduce them. You can do this through lifestyle changes and medication management.
Regular check-ups with healthcare professionals are also essential. They’ll help you watch for any potential complications.
Diabetic Neuropathy
One common complication is diabetic neuropathy. This condition affects the nerves and can lead to the following symptoms in the hands and feet:
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Pain
Diabetic Retinopathy
Another risk is diabetic retinopathy, a condition that affects the eyes. It can result in vision loss if left untreated.
Cardiovascular Issues
Additionally, individuals with diabetes are more prone to developing cardiovascular diseases. This can include heart attacks and strokes.
Medications for Diabetes Management
When it comes to diabetes management, prevention is vital. Taking proactive steps can significantly improve your overall health and well-being.
Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise are imperative. However, medications can play a crucial role in preventing diabetes as well.
One commonly prescribed medication for diabetes prevention is Metformin. Metformin works by reducing insulin resistance and lowering glucose production in the liver. It is often used in individuals with prediabetes or those at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Lesser-Known Medications for Diabetes Management
Managing diabetes goes beyond just insulin. There are lesser-known medications that play a crucial role in comprehensive diabetes management.
These medications can help with the following:
- Lower glucose levels
- Aid in weight management
- Address diabetic complications
Alternative Medications for Lowering Glucose Levels
When it comes to managing diabetes, insulin is often the go-to medication. However, other drugs can help lower glucose levels and provide additional support. These lesser-known medications can be a valuable addition to your diabetes management plan.
One alternative medication we already discussed is Metformin, which can be used to help with diabetes prevention and management.
Another option is a class of drugs that are GLP-1 receptor agonists. These stimulate insulin production and decrease glucagon secretion. They not only help lower blood sugar levels but also promote weight loss.
SGLT2 inhibitors are another class of drugs that can help reduce glucose levels. They do this by blocking kidney reabsorption and increasing urinary excretion of glucose. This mechanism helps to remove excess sugar from the body while also promoting weight loss.
Weight Medications for Diabetes Management
Weight management is a crucial aspect of diabetes control. For individuals with diabetes, maintaining a healthy weight can help improve insulin sensitivity. It can also improve overall blood sugar control.
While diet and exercise are the foundation of any weight loss plan, sometimes additional support is needed. This is where weight management medications come into play.
These medications work differently to assist with weight loss and diabetes control. Certain medicines work by reducing appetite or increasing feelings of fullness.
This makes it easier to stick to a calorie-controlled diet. Others may alter how the body processes nutrients, leading to increased fat-burning or reduced fat absorption.
It’s important to note that these medications should always be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. They will evaluate your needs and determine if weight management medication is proper for you.
Medications for Diabetic Complications
When it comes to managing diabetes, it’s not just about controlling blood sugar levels. Diabetic complications can arise over time and require specialized medications for effective management.
Cardiovascular Health
One key aspect of diabetic complication management is addressing cardiovascular health. Medications such as ACE inhibitors and statins can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke in individuals with diabetes. They work by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, respectively.
Kidney Health
Another critical consideration is kidney health. Diabetes can lead to kidney damage, known as diabetic nephropathy.
Medications may be prescribed to protect the kidneys from further damage. This could include angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) or sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors.
Nerve Damage
Additionally, nerve damage caused by diabetes, known as diabetic neuropathy, requires specific treatments. Medications such as tricyclic antidepressants or anticonvulsants can help manage the pain associated with this condition.
Paying for Your Medications
Managing diabetes often requires a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. While prioritizing your health is essential, it’s no secret that the cost of medicines can be overwhelming. However, options are available to help make paying for your medications more manageable.
At Prescription Hope, we believe you shouldn’t have to compromise on necessary treatments because of financial constraints. That’s why our affordable medication service exists.
We want to provide you with access to the crucial medications you need at an economical price. That way, you can go back to living without worrying about how to pay for your meds.
Work With Prescription Hope to Get Your Medications
Diabetes management and the medications needed can quickly begin to feel overwhelming. However, you shouldn’t have to forgo your crucial medications due to financial constraints. Prescription Hope is here to help you afford the meds you need.
Even if you need more than one vial of insulin, a doctor can write a prescription for the number of vials that you need, and our service will only cost you $60.00 per prescription of insulin per month. No other service gets you this level of affordability when it comes to the insulin that you need.
