
What’s the importance of a diabetes medication review?

Diagnosis with type 2 diabetes can send people through an emotional whirlwind, from initial concern to action and purposefulness. After all, diabetes is a chronic condition, and being diagnosed is just the beginning of the story.
But first a refresher: What is diabetes?
Well, glucose is our body's main source of fuel and a hormone called insulin is key in turning glucose into energy. A person with diabetes is unable to produce any or sufficient insulin. This means glucose isn't turned into energy effectively and the level of glucose in their blood rises to an unhealthy level. This can have serious short and long-term health effects.
Having diabetes means keeping on top of blood sugar monitoring, dietary considerations, medications, and more, every day. If you’re living with type 2 diabetes, receive support from your Pharmacist.* One way to do this is with a diabetes medication review.
During a Diabetes Medication Review, your Pharmacist will help you:
- Understand your medication to better control your diabetes and avoid potential side effects
- Give personalised support suited to your lifestyle in a one-on-one consultation
It’s an ideal setting to ask questions about monitoring and interpreting blood sugar levels, and making good food and lifestyle choices for keeping healthy, so you can walk away with a greater understanding of your type 2 diabetes and the confidence to self-manage your day-to-day needs.

RealTalk with Leeza Vuong
Pharmacist at TerryWhite Chemmart Milton, NSW
References:
https://www1.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/fifth-community-pharmacy-agreement-mur
https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/about-diabetes/what-is-diabetes/
*Only available at participating pharmacies. This service is Government subsidised and subject to eligibility, therefore you must be a current Medicare cardholder or Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) cardholder to participate.
