Diabetes is a serious medical condition that affects millions of Australians and can lead to long-term health complications if left untreated. Thankfully, there are a number of treatments available to help keep diabetes under control. One of these treatments is medication, which can help to keep blood sugar levels in check and minimise the risk of long-term complications. In Australia, there are specific guidelines for the use of diabetes medication, which should be followed in order to ensure that the best possible results are achieved. In this article, we will explore the main diabetes medication guidelines in Australia.
How is Diabetes Medication Used?
Diabetes medication is used to help keep blood sugar levels in check and reduce the risk of long-term complications. It is usually prescribed in combination with a healthy diet and regular exercise, and can help to control the symptoms of diabetes. Depending on the type of medication prescribed, it may be taken orally or injected, and the dosage and frequency of use will vary from person to person. It’s important to always follow the instructions on the medication label, as well as the advice of your doctor.
Types of Diabetes Medication
There are different types of diabetes medication, which can be used to treat different types of diabetes. These include: oral medications, such as metformin and glipizide; injectable medications, such as insulin and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists; and combination medications, which involve taking two or more medications at the same time. The type of medication prescribed will depend on the type of diabetes and the individual needs of the patient.
Diabetes Medication Guidelines in Australia
In Australia, the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) sets out the guidelines for diabetes medication use. These guidelines recommend that all people with diabetes should have a medication plan that is tailored to their individual needs. This plan should include a combination of lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, as well as medication. The guidelines also recommend that people with diabetes should have regular check-ups with their doctor to monitor their blood sugar levels and adjust their medication accordingly.
When to Start Taking Diabetes Medication
The NDSS guidelines recommend that people with type 2 diabetes should begin taking medication when their blood sugar levels are higher than 10mmol/L. People with type 1 diabetes should start taking medication when their blood sugar levels are higher than 8mmol/L. It is important to follow the advice of your doctor, as they will be able to advise when it is appropriate to start taking diabetes medication.
Monitoring Diabetes Medication
It is important to monitor the effects of diabetes medication regularly, as this can help to ensure that it is working as it should. This can be done through regular check-ups with your doctor, as well as self-monitoring at home. Self-monitoring involves testing your blood sugar levels on a regular basis and keeping a record of the results. This can help to identify any potential issues with the medication and allow the doctor to adjust the dosage accordingly.
Treating Diabetes with Insulin
Insulin is a medication that is used to treat diabetes and is usually prescribed when other treatments, such as diet and exercise, cannot effectively control blood sugar levels. Insulin is injected directly into the body, and the dosage and frequency of injections will vary from person to person. It is important to always follow the instructions on the medication label and the advice of your doctor when taking insulin.
Managing Diabetes Medication Side Effects
It is important to be aware of the potential side effects of diabetes medication, as these can vary from person to person. Common side effects of diabetes medication include nausea, diarrhoea, headaches, dizziness and fatigue. If you experience any of these side effects, it is important to speak to your doctor as soon as possible, as they may be able to adjust the dosage or switch to a different medication.
Conclusion
The National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) has set out the guidelines for diabetes medication use in Australia. These guidelines recommend that all people with diabetes should have a medication plan that is tailored to their individual needs, and that they should have regular check-ups with their doctor to monitor their blood sugar levels and adjust their medication accordingly. It is also important to be aware of the potential side effects of diabetes medication and speak to your doctor if you experience any of these side effects.
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