“Should diabetics take medication?”
I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. But I keep blood sugar levels normal with diet and exercise. Should I still take medications?
2 Answers
That depends on your HbA1c , urine microalbumin, and coexisting condition, and medications. Certain medications can prevent the progression of diabetes. An endocrinologist may be helpful.
Dear Patient,
Whether you need meds will depend on your A1c, which is a marker of diabetic control. Importantly, diabetic complications begin at a level of 6, which equates to average sugar of 136 all day. While an a1c of 7 is goal for most patients. I start patients with recent onset diabetes on meds when the a1c is above 6 to prevent those complications. In starting meds, awareness of susceptibility for hypoglycemia is always considered in the decision making. I am glad your numbers are good due to diet and exercise, but check A1c with your physician.
Respectfully,
Marvin A. Leder, MD FACP FACE
Whether you need meds will depend on your A1c, which is a marker of diabetic control. Importantly, diabetic complications begin at a level of 6, which equates to average sugar of 136 all day. While an a1c of 7 is goal for most patients. I start patients with recent onset diabetes on meds when the a1c is above 6 to prevent those complications. In starting meds, awareness of susceptibility for hypoglycemia is always considered in the decision making. I am glad your numbers are good due to diet and exercise, but check A1c with your physician.
Respectfully,
Marvin A. Leder, MD FACP FACE
