WHY MEDICAL ADHERENCE MATTERS

1. What is Medication Adherence?

Medication adherence means taking your diabetic medications exactly as prescribed: at the right time, right dose, and for the right duration, just as your doctor or pharmacist recommends. 

Following your treatment plan helps control blood sugar, prevent complications, and keeps you feeling your best. 



2. Importance Of Medication Adherence To Diabetic Patients

Taking diabetes medicines at the right time and in the right amount every day can:

  • Keep blood sugar stable and prevents it from going too high or too low
  • Lower the risk of serious health problems like eye damage, heart disease or kidney problems caused by diabetes.
  • Reduces the chances of sudden diabetes emergencies that may require hospital care.
  • Prevent costly treatments or hospital stays caused by complications.
  • Help you feel better, have more energy, and perform daily activities without any pain or discomfort.


    • 3. Common Barriers To Medication Adherence

    Some challenges may make it difficult to take medications on time:

  • Some medicines can be expensive. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about cheaper options or insurance programs.
  • Taking many different medicines can be confusing. Use a pillbox or phone reminders to stay on track.
  • If instructions are hard to understand, ask for simple explanations, pictures, or visual guides.
  • Sometimes it may seem ineffective at first. Tracking blood sugar and consulting with your doctor helps monitor progress.
  • Sometimes beliefs, stigma, or doubts about medicine make it taking harder. Speak openly with your healthcare team.
  • Missing follow-ups can affect your treatment. Regular check-ups and follow-ups keep your treatment on track.
  • Side effects may make you feel sick. Talk to your doctor about ways to manage them.

    • Here are some common side effects and what you can do:


    Common Side Effect Possible Cause/Medication Type Simple Strategies To Manage
    Upset stomach or nausea Metformin or other oral diabetes drugs Take medication with food or after meals. If it persists, consult your Doctor
    Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) Insulin or sulfonylureas (e.g Glibenclamide) Always eat meals on time. Carry a small snack or glucose tablet in case sugar drops.
    Weight Gain Insulin or certain oral medications Follow a balanced diet and regular exercise routine. Speak with your healthcare provider if it becomes concerning.
    Dizziness or fatigue Blood sugar changes due to new medication Rest, stay hydrated and monitor your sugar levels. Inform your doctor if symptoms continue.
    Injection site reaction Insulin injections Rotate injection sites and use proper techniques. Avoid reusing needles.

    Tip: Aways report side effects before stopping any medicine on your own.

    For more information on how to manage these and other diabetes medication side effects, visit this website linked here...


    4. Consequences Of Poor Adherence

    Not taking medications as prescribed can:

  • Keep blood sugar uncontrolled, which increases the risk of complications
  • Lead to frequent hospital visits or emergency care due to sudden diabetes problems. Slow down wound healing, making infections or foot ulcers more likely.
  • Damage eyes over time, which can cause vision loss or blindness.
  • Increase the risk of heart, kidney, and nerve problems caused by diabetes.
  • Reduce energy and ability, and ability to perform daily activities comfortably.
  • Raise your healthcare costs because of extra doctor visits, hospital stays, and treatments for complications.






    • YOUR HEALTH, YOUR CHOICE: LEARN HOW TO MANAGE DIABETES MELLITUS BETTER ONE STEP AT A TIME

    © 2025