Pharmacists and Medication Interactions
| Author: Judy Kohn, RN, BSN, CDE |
| Last Updated: Tuesday, February 14, 2006 |
Q: "I have been recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, non-insulin dependent. I also have arthritis. After returning to my normal medications one at a time, which include Bextra® (see note), a cox2 inhibitor, my glucose shot up to 247. On another medication, Effexor®, my glucose barely rose to 65. I have since stopped taking both; can you give me any advice as to where I can find information on safe medications for diabetics? I have a wonderful pharmacist, but I hate to tie her up with researching my meds so often."
A: I'm sure your pharmacist appreciates your thoughtfulness; however in this case, you are not letting her do her job! The pharmacist is considered a very valuable member of your diabetes healthcare team. Pharmacists truly are the medication experts-they have a wealth of good information on medicines: what's in them, and how they interact with each other. They can give you advice on how medicines might affect your diabetes control.
In fact, it is highly recommended that you find a pharmacy you like, and go there for all your medication needs. This way, your pharmacist can keep an up-to-date record of your medical conditions, allergies, and medications, and alert you to possible side effects or drug interactions.
Update note: Bextra was withdrawn from the market
Related Links
American Pharmacists Association
http://www.pharmacyandyou.org
American Diabetes Association (ADA)
http://www.diabetes.org
Diabetes Self-Management
http://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com
Important Notice: The responses provided by the team of Diabetes Educators are based on their personal experiences and expertise as practicing diabetes healthcare professionals, and are not to be considered diabetes management advice from Abbott Laboratories. Remember that information provided by the team of Diabetes Educators is for general background purposes and is not intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment by a trained professional. You should always consult your physician about any healthcare questions you may have, especially before trying a new medication, diet, fitness program, or approach to healthcare issues.
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