Blood Sugar Levels: Do I Need Diabetes Medication?

Blood sugar issues

Hello, Director Hsiao.
A week ago, I had a fasting blood test at the hospital to check my blood sugar levels.
Today, the outpatient physician informed me that my fasting blood sugar of 70 is a precursor to diabetes and that I need to take medication.
This has left me quite confused.
Isn't it true that the medical community considers fasting blood sugar levels between 70 and 100 to be normal? At that moment, I asked the physician again if I really need to take medication, and the outpatient physician confirmed that I do.
May I ask for your opinion, Director Hsiao? Do I really need to take diabetes medication? Thank you for clarifying this for me.

Gao xing, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/25

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine

Dear Mr.
Gao Xing,
1.
The treatment of diabetes primarily involves dietary control, regular exercise, and medication.
Unless dietary control and regular exercise can completely manage the progression of diabetes, continuing medication is necessary.
Do not discontinue medication on your own just because blood sugar levels are within the normal range.
2.
The management of diabetes cannot be determined solely by one or two fasting blood glucose readings.
Lifestyle adjustments, weight management, changes in clinical symptoms, and variations in exercise intensity and frequency should all be taken into account.
3.
It is advisable for you to discuss this in detail with your primary care physician.

Reply Date: 2017/09/25

More Info

When it comes to understanding blood sugar levels and the need for diabetes medication, it's essential to consider various factors, including the specific blood sugar readings, the context of those readings, and the overall health of the individual. Based on your inquiry, it appears there may be some confusion regarding what constitutes normal blood sugar levels and when medication is necessary.

Firstly, let's clarify the normal ranges for fasting and pre-meal blood sugar levels. According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), normal fasting blood sugar levels are typically between 70 mg/dL and 99 mg/dL. A fasting blood sugar level of 70 mg/dL is considered normal and does not indicate a need for medication. In fact, a reading of 70 mg/dL is on the lower end of the normal range, and it is not indicative of prediabetes or diabetes.

The confusion may arise from the interpretation of blood sugar levels in the context of other readings and symptoms. For instance, if your fasting blood sugar is consistently in the normal range but you have other risk factors for diabetes (such as family history, obesity, or high blood pressure), your healthcare provider may be more vigilant about monitoring your blood sugar levels. However, a single reading of 70 mg/dL does not warrant immediate concern or the initiation of medication.

It's also important to consider the concept of "prediabetes." Prediabetes is typically diagnosed when fasting blood sugar levels are between 100 mg/dL and 125 mg/dL, or when the HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin) level is between 5.7% and 6.4%. If your blood sugar levels fall within these ranges, your healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, rather than medication.

In your case, since your fasting blood sugar is 70 mg/dL, it does not meet the criteria for prediabetes or diabetes. Therefore, medication is not necessary based solely on this reading. It is crucial to have a comprehensive discussion with your healthcare provider about your overall health, any symptoms you may be experiencing, and the rationale behind their recommendation for medication.

If your healthcare provider insists on medication despite your normal fasting blood sugar, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from another healthcare professional, preferably an endocrinologist or a specialist in diabetes management. They can provide a more thorough evaluation of your blood sugar levels, consider your medical history, and help you understand whether medication is truly necessary.

In addition to medication, lifestyle modifications play a significant role in managing blood sugar levels and preventing diabetes. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, and maintaining a healthy weight are all essential components of diabetes prevention and management.

In summary, based on the information provided, a fasting blood sugar level of 70 mg/dL is considered normal and does not indicate a need for diabetes medication. It is essential to have open communication with your healthcare provider and consider seeking a second opinion if you have concerns about the recommendations being made. Remember, managing blood sugar levels effectively often involves a combination of lifestyle changes and, when necessary, medication.

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