TYPE 2 DIABETES: LESSONS FROM MY PATIENTS WHO HATE MEDICATIONS

Caroline Trapp, DNP, ANP-BC, CDE, FAANP, 

Diabetes Nurse Practitioner, Premier Internists

Type 2 Diabetes: Lessons From My Patients Who Hate Medications

Diet, exercise, medication and monitoring have long been the “gold standard” of diabetes care. New research, however, shows that the efficacy of medications may be over-rated, and cost and safety concerns have been under-recognized. Many well-meaning clinicians rely on medication because they don’t believe their patients can or will make significant lifestyle changes. We’ll talk about diet options, along with how to interpret lab results, overcome any “carbophobia,” reduce the need for medication, and, how and when to discuss medication reduction with your health care professional.