Your diabetes medications come with specific instructions for use.

These drugs can affect your body differently depending on when and how you take them. If you know the names of the medications you're taking and the reasons they were prescribed, you can start recognizing changes in how you feel. Then you can work with your diabetes care team to make any necessary adjustments.

Taking the right medications can lower your blood glucose levels, reduce your risk of complications and help you feel better. Your diabetes educator can teach you how to administer your insulin and help you understand how certain medications work in your body.

How partners can help

• Ask your doctor why each particular medication was prescribed for you.
• Ask your diabetes educator to help you fit your medication routine into your daily schedule. Be sure to bring all medications or labels with you when you go to health appointments.
• Ask a family member to go to an appointment with you adn take notes so your not confused when you get home. Also, ask them to remind you to take your medications or labels when you go for any medical appointment.