Management

Diabetes: Ways to Take Medicine

Choose a preferred language

There are many kinds of diabetes medicines. Some are in pill form, and others must be given as a shot. Some can be taken in more than one way. Below are the main ways of taking these medicines.

Take your diabetes medicine as directed. If you have any questions, talk with your doctor. Or ask your pharmacist.

Pills

Prescription medication bottles.

Shots (using a syringe or pen-like device)

Insulin pen and syringe.

Insulin pumps (can deliver a steady amount of insulin 24 hours a day)

Insulin pump.

Inhalers (deliver a fine insulin powder that you breathe in)

Insulin inhaler.

Featured in

Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Kent Turley BSN MSN RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Robert Hurd MD

Online Medical Reviewer: Ronald Karlin MD

Date Last Reviewed: 04/01/2024

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

Start your journey toward better health

Select a primary care physician who will deliver personal care, close to home.

Find a Doctor

We have more than 4,500 specialty care physicians in our network

We have you covered from head (neurosurgery) to toe (podiatry.) And everything in-between!

Find a Doctor

Need Help?

Get the right care at the right time.

Learn More
Related Articles
Read article
Diabetes
Managing Stress When You Have Diabetes

Getting used to life with a chronic condition can be hard. But excess stress or sadness can actually affect your blood sugar. Learn to watch for signs of these feelings. And know that you can get help.

Read article
Diabetes
Checking Ketones

Here are images showing how to treat high blood sugar when you have diabetes.

Read article
Diabetes
Resources for People with Diabetes

Living with diabetes means making many changes in your life, and these changes may seem overwhelming. When you feel down, reach out to your family and friends, and to your healthcare team. Here is a list of other resources.

Read article
Diabetes
Diabetes: Understanding Carbohydrates, Fats, and Protein

Understanding how different foods affect blood sugar can help you manage your diabetes.