Understanding Your Medications and Monitoring

By the Primary Health Awareness Trust

Managing diabetes isn’t just about food and movement — it also involves understanding the medicines you take and how to monitor your blood sugar safely. For many older adults, this can feel confusing or overwhelming. But with the right information and support, you can feel confident and in control.

What Is Blood Sugar Monitoring — and Why Does It Matter?

Monitoring your blood sugar (glucose) helps you understand how your body responds to meals, activity, sleep, or medication. It can guide what works well for you — and when you may need support.

The most common tests include:

• Finger-prick home testing: A small drop of blood is tested using a monitor
• HbA1c blood test: Done at your GP surgery every 3–6 months, shows your average sugar levels

You don’t always need to check at home unless advised by your GP — especially if you’re not using insulin. But some older adults find it helpful as part of their routine.

Common Diabetes Medications (Explained Simply)

There are several types of medications used to help manage blood sugar. Here’s a plain-English overview:

• Metformin: Helps your body use insulin better and lowers how much sugar your liver releases. Often taken with or after food.
• SGLT2 Inhibitors (e.g. dapagliflozin): Help your body pass extra sugar in urine. May help with weight and blood pressure too.
• GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: Often weekly injections that help slow digestion and reduce appetite.
• Insulin: Given by injection. Replaces what your body can’t make. Often used if other medicines aren’t enough.

Important: Always follow your doctor or pharmacist’s instructions. Let them know if you notice new side effects like dizziness, stomach upset, or swelling.

Tips to Stay on Track with Your Medication

• ⏰ Use a pill organiser or set phone reminders
• 📝 Keep a written log of when you take each medication
• 📦 Store medicines in a cool, dry place (unless told otherwise)
• 💬 Tell your GP if you’re having trouble affording or managing your meds — support is available

What to Ask During Medication Reviews

You’re entitled to an annual medication review — and you can request one sooner if needed. Ask:

• “Are there any side effects I should be aware of?”
• “Is this medicine still the best option for me at my age?”
• “Could this be affecting my sleep, mood, or appetite?”

Low or High Readings? Here’s What to Do

If you’re checking your sugars at home, aim to stay within the range recommended by your GP. Signs of trouble:

• Low sugar (“hypo”): Feeling shaky, sweaty, dizzy, or confused. Eat or drink something sugary like fruit juice or glucose tablets.
• High sugar (“hyper”): Thirst, tiredness, needing to urinate more. Try gentle walking, drink water, and speak to your GP if it keeps happening.

Always: Keep a small snack with you if you’re at risk of hypos — and let friends or carers know how to help if you feel unwell.

Final Thought

Understanding your medication and monitoring doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right tools and support, you can build a routine that works for you — and feel reassured, not restricted.

Explore more in our Living Well with Diabetes Hub — including tips on emotional wellbeing, nutrition, and safe movement. You’re not alone on this journey — we’re here with you.