Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a common disease among adults and can cause complications such as nerve damage, high blood pressure or hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. The American Diabetes Association reports that approximately two-thirds of adults with diabetes also have hypertension. The recommended target blood pressure of diabetics is less than 130/80 mmHg to help prevent strokes, heart disease and vision loss. Treatment, including medications to control blood glucose and blood pressure levels, is required by most diabetics. Vitamin supplements are also recommended to enhance a balanced diet to maintain health. A doctor will prescribe the best diabetic and hypertension medications for an individual.
Step 1
Take metformin prescription medication as prescribed by your doctor. Take the initial recommended dose of 500 mg twice a day before breakfast and the evening meal or take 850 mg once a day just before eating your breakfast. Metformin is the most commonly prescribed medication for type 2 diabetes. It helps lower blood glucose levels by increasing the sensitivity of the body's cells to insulin. This allows more dietary glucose to be transported into the tissues and muscles, where it is used to produce energy. The dose of metformin may be increased by your doctor if necessary.
Step 2
Injest metformin just before eating a meal to help reduce digestive side effects that may occur. Swallow metformin tablets whole with a glass of water. If metformin is prescribed in conjunction with another diabetes medication, such as a sulfonylurea, take the medicines exactly as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
Step 3
Inject insulin as prescribed by your doctor. Insulin injections are taken before eating a meal. Insulin comes in several forms, including short-acting, rapid-acting and long-acting. The rate of onset and the duration of each types varies; consult your doctor about the best kind for you and how to take it. Individuals with type 2 diabetes are usually prescribed insulin along with glucose-lowering medications.
Step 4
Take your blood pressure medication at exactly the prescribed dosage. Consume the medication at the same time each day. You can take your blood pressure medication at a different time than your diabetes medication if you wish. Commonly prescribed hypertension medicines for diabetes patients include ACE inhibitors, diuretics, calcium channel blockers and beta blockers.
Step 5
Supplement with a multivitamin that is recommended for diabetic individuals. Consult your doctor or nutritionist about the best supplement to take. If you are taking individual vitamin supplements, it is best to take B vitamins earlier in the day as they help provide energy. Swallow vitamin supplements with a glass of water. They can be taken on their own or at the same time you take your diabetes or blood pressure medication.
Tips and Warnings
- Vitamin deficiencies are common in individuals with diabetes. Consult your doctor about symptoms that may be caused by inadequate nutrients. It is vitally important for diabetics to check blood sugar levels daily and get regular checkups by their doctor. Blood glucose levels, blood pressure and cholesterol levels should be checked by a professional at least every three months.
- Prescription medications for diabetes and high blood pressure can cause side effects and adverse interactions. Report any reactions or side effects to your doctor. Make sure the vitamin supplement you are taking is suitable for diabetics; some supplements may contain sugars or other ingredients that will raise blood sugar levels.
Things You'll Need
- Diabetes prescription medication
- Hypertension prescription medication
- Vitamin supplements
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