Making your medication work for you

While medication assists in helping to manage diabetes, its effectiveness also relies on the appropriate choice of medication, taking your medication as prescribed, reporting side effects and regular review with your doctor.

People can have a variety of problems with taking their medication. This can  include:

  • Being unsure what you are taking the medication for
  • Being unsure how long to take it for or when to have it reviewed
  • Experiencing unexpected side effects
  • Being unable to afford it
  • Remembering to take it
  • What to do if you miss a dose
  • The cost versus the perceived benefit of the medication

The following advice will help you to get the most out of your medications

Be informed and have the correct information:

  • Know the drug name of your medication - most medications have different brand names, for example, Glucophage & Diabex are both brand names of the same drug Metformin
  • Inform your doctor about all of the medication that you are currently taking. This includes prescription, over the counter, vitamins and complementary therapies
  • Know what your medications are for. Read the Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) sheet, or ask your pharmacist or doctor
  • Carry a list of your current medications and dosages with you. You can download a Medication List from the National Prescribing Service, or get the new Medicines List iPhone app.
  • Tell your doctor if you are experiencing side effects from your medication
  • Use one pharmacy for all your dispensed medications so they have a record of your current and past medications and will be alerted to possible interactions

Take your medications as prescribed:

  • Take your medication at the recommended times. Note if it is to be taken before, with or after food. If this is not clear ask your doctor or pharmacist
  • Taking more medication than is recommended will not be beneficial. Most drugs have a maximum effective dose
  • Be honest if you are not taking the dose of medication that the doctor has prescribed. Explain your reasons. Combined or slow release medications may be an alternative. Generic brands are usually cheaper but just as effective
  • If you forget to take your insulin seek the advice of your doctor about the next dose
  • If you have trouble remembering to take your medication try:
    • Taking it at the same time each day - set an alarm on your mobile phone or clock
    • Make a chart listing your medications, the date, times to take and tick off when medication has been taken
    • Use a Dosette box. This can be arranged through your pharmacist.

Storage of medications:

  • Medication should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Storage instructions are usually displayed on the label
  • Some medications such as unopened insulin need to be stored in the refrigerator between 2-8 degrees Celsius
  • Insulin should be replaced if it has been exposed to extremes of temperature ie. freezing or heat
  • Keep medications in their original container. Important information and instructions are on the label
  • Return any medication that is either no longer required or has expired to your pharmacy

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How effective is your medication?

Have your medication reviewed regularly by your doctor. Your diabetes medication requirements may change due to weight loss, weight gain, if you are unwell or are unable to exercise. Treatment for other co-existing conditions may also result in the need for medication adjustment.

Regular tests to assess the effectiveness of your medication include:

  • HbA1c and blood glucose monitoring assess your blood glucose management and diabetes medication
  • Cholesterol and triglyceride levels:  A test every 6 to 12 months is recommended if you are taking lipid lowering medication
  • Liver Function Test: is recommended when commencing or taking Metformin or Glitazones (Avandia, Avandamet or Actos) and cholesterol lowering medication
  • Kidney Function Test:  If you have significant kidney disease certain diabetes medications may not be suitable
  • Blood Pressure. Your doctor should check this at each visit

Home Medicine Review

A home medicines review is a service provided jointly by doctors and pharmacists for people who take medicines.

You might benefit from a home medicines review if:

  • You take a number of medicines
  • You are having difficulty with your medicines
  • You have recently been discharged from hospital

Talk to your GP or pharmacist if you think you might benefit from a home medicines review.

Affording your Medication

Most medicines available on prescription in Australia are subsidised under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). You pay for a proportion of the medication and the Commonwealth Government pays for the rest.

If you and your family need a lot of medicines, there is a PBS Safety Net to help you financially.

Once you or your family reach a Safety Net threshold, you can apply for a PBS Safety Net card—then your PBS medicine will be less expensive or free for the rest of the year. Contact Medicare for further information.

For further information about making your medicines work for you contact:

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