Management

Diabetes: Ways to Take Medicine

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There are many kinds of diabetes medicines. Some are in pill form, and others must be given as a shot. Some can be taken in more than one way. Below are the main ways of taking these medicines.

Take your diabetes medicine as directed. If you have any questions, talk with your healthcare provider. Or ask your pharmacist.

Pills

Prescription medication bottles.

Shots (using a syringe or pen-like device)

Insulin pen and syringe.

Insulin pumps (can deliver a steady amount of insulin 24 hours a day)

Insulin pump.

Inhalers (deliver a fine insulin powder that you breathe in)

Insulin inhaler.

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Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Kent Turley BSN MSN RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Robert Hurd MD

Online Medical Reviewer: Ronald Karlin MD

Date Last Reviewed: 04/01/2024

© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

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