Managing your medications can be challenging, especially if you’re taking multiple medications or have a busy schedule. Here are some tips and solutions to make sure you’re taking your medications on time and the correct way.

Listen to Your Doctor

Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding your meds. Be sure to also read each prescription label and the printed information provided by your pharmacist. If you are confused about anything, ask the pharmacist or contact your doctor. It is always best to clarify any information if you are confused. It’s always better to hear facts from your doctor than learn things that are untrue. To learn more myths and truths about diabetes, read this post!

Stay Organized

Keep a written and/or electronic list of meds you are currently taking. Bring this list to each visit with your doctors. It may be helpful to actually bring your medication bottles, any over the counter medication you are taking, or supplement/vitamins. Make sure to keep these lists updated if you change your medication routine. A list of your meds is just one of the items we offer that can easily be shared with your doctor. 

Find a Routine

Get into a “med taking routine” and use cues, such as brushing your teeth or eating a meal to remind you to take your meds. Use pill organizers and other reminders to help avoid missing doses. It could even be as easy as setting alarms in your phone, with the specific medications you are taking at that time. If a schedule is hard to figure then speak with your provider or pharmacist so your medication schedule is coordinated.

If There’s a Problem, Seek Help

When you have your meds refilled, talk to your pharmacist about any problems, concerns, or questions you may have. If cost is a problem, you can ask your pharmacist for help. Also, remember that Iowa Diabetes offers you ways to save money on your meds via coupons or our Drug Discount Card.

Common Problems & Solutions

 

Having trouble remembering which meds to take and when?

Try using pill organizers to help you keep track of which meds you have or have not taken. If you want to separate the pills you take in the morning and the ones you take before bed, use two different pill boxes. Setting alarms on your phone can also be very helpful.

Unsure of what your meds are for and how they will improve your health?

The information you receive with your prescriptions may seem overwhelming. If you are still unsure of how exactly you will benefit from your meds, simply ask your pharmacist. If it’s still unclear, contact your doctor to learn why they prescribed it for you.

Problems with remembering your full list of meds?

The Iowa Diabetes Portal makes this simple with myMeds. Simply add each med you take into myMeds, and the program will always securely store this data for you. Then, when it’s time for your doctor visit, you can refer back to your medication list. Click here to access the Portal.

Are your prescriptions too expensive?

Ask your doctor if there are generic alternatives to your prescriptions. Also be sure to take advantage of Iowa Diabetes Portal cost saving features, like our drug discount card. Check out this Youtube video for more information about finding diabetes medication on a budget!

Summary

There are many different tactics for managing your medications. From talking to your doctor, staying organized, making a routine, or even asking for help – managing your meds has never been easier. Troubles may arise, such as expensive prescriptions or having trouble remembering to take your meds. The Iowa Diabetes Portal has all the tools you may need to face these problems.

DISCLAIMER statement “This is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. For individual medical advice, contact your healthcare practitioner.”