Diabetes medication issues?
Hello, Doctor.
About a year ago, I was diagnosed with diabetes (pre-meal blood sugar 143, HbA1c 8.3).
The doctor prescribed medication and advised me to lose weight (one Kuroda tablet in the morning and evening, and one Forxiga in the morning).
After working hard over this time, I have lost nearly 40 kilograms, and my HbA1c has gradually decreased to 5.3 (measured every three months).
The doctor has now changed my regimen to one Kuroda tablet and one Forxiga in the morning.
Last week's latest results showed a pre-meal blood sugar of 81 and an HbA1c of 4.8.
There has been significant improvement, but the doctor wants me to continue taking the medication and losing weight.
He mentioned that this dosage is actually not high.
I would like to ask Dr.
Chen, is this dosage really considered low for a diabetes patient? Thank you.
Azu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/09
Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
● It is indeed not significant; with your diet, exercise, weight loss, and medication assistance, your blood sugar is well controlled.
● However, with a hemoglobin A1c of 4.8, you should be cautious of the risk of hypoglycemia, although the risk is lower with Kuroda and Forxiga.
It is best to monitor your blood sugar levels yourself; if it falls below seventy, that indicates hypoglycemia.
● You may want to discuss with your physician whether any adjustments to your prescription are necessary.
Wishing you good health, Dr.
Chen Tai-Cheng from Taoyuan Hospital Family Medicine Department is concerned about you~
Reply Date: 2017/08/09
More Info
Managing diabetes effectively requires a comprehensive approach that includes medication, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels. Based on your situation, it seems you have made significant progress in managing your diabetes, which is commendable. Let's break down your concerns regarding medication dosage and its implications.
1. Understanding Your Current Medication: You mentioned that you are currently taking Kurozai (likely referring to a medication such as Metformin) and Fuzhijia (possibly a DPP-4 inhibitor like Sitagliptin). These medications are commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes. Metformin is often the first-line treatment due to its efficacy in lowering blood glucose levels without causing significant weight gain or hypoglycemia. DPP-4 inhibitors, on the other hand, work by enhancing the body's own ability to lower blood sugar levels when they are elevated.
2. Dosage Considerations: Your doctor has adjusted your medication based on your impressive weight loss and improved blood sugar levels. The fact that your HbA1c has dropped to 4.8% is excellent, as it indicates that your blood sugar levels have been well-controlled over the past three months. However, it is important to note that while a lower dosage may seem insufficient, it is often tailored to the individual's needs. Your doctor likely considers your overall health, weight loss, and blood sugar trends when determining the appropriate dosage.
3. Is Your Dosage Too Low?: In the context of diabetes management, a lower dosage does not necessarily mean inadequate treatment. In fact, achieving a balance where blood sugar levels are controlled without the risk of hypoglycemia is crucial. Your current regimen may be effective for you, especially given your recent results. It is also important to recognize that diabetes management is not solely about medication; lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and weight management play a significant role in controlling blood sugar levels.
4. Continued Monitoring: Regular monitoring of your blood sugar levels is essential, especially since you are on medication. It is advisable to keep track of your fasting blood glucose and HbA1c levels, as these will help you and your healthcare provider assess the effectiveness of your treatment plan. If you notice any significant changes in your blood sugar levels or experience symptoms of hypoglycemia (such as dizziness, sweating, or confusion), it is important to consult your doctor promptly.
5. Weight Management: Your weight loss of nearly 40 kilograms is a significant achievement and can greatly impact your diabetes management. Weight loss can improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate blood sugar levels. However, it is important to maintain a healthy weight and avoid excessive weight loss, which can lead to other health issues.
6. Consulting Your Doctor: If you have concerns about your medication dosage or if you feel that your blood sugar levels are too low, it is crucial to discuss these with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and may adjust your treatment plan as needed. Open communication with your doctor is key to ensuring that your diabetes management plan is effective and safe.
In conclusion, your current medication dosage, while it may seem low, is likely appropriate given your recent health improvements. Continue to focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, monitor your blood sugar levels regularly, and keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider. This holistic approach will help you manage your diabetes effectively and reduce the risk of complications.
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