Dismiss Modal

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 healthcare provider. 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

© 2000-2025 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.

Take a Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment

Learn about your risk for Type 2 diabetes with this quick online assessment.

Start assessment

Related Articles
Read article
Diabetes
Taking Medicine for Diabetes

Medicines can't cure diabetes. But they can delay or prevent health problems by helping you manage your blood sugar.

Read article
Diabetes
Oral Medicines for Type 2 Diabetes

Many types of diabetes pills are available. Each type works in a different way.

Read article
Diabetes
Managing Your Diabetes: Taking Medication

Like many people with diabetes, you may need to take medication to help keep your blood sugar (glucose) level steady. Diabetes increases your risk for other health conditions, such as heart or kidney related problems, so you may need to take medicine to help with those, too.

Read article
Diabetes
Treatment of Diabetes

Read on to learn about treatment for type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Find a Provider
View more info
Dr. Richard Bortz, MD

Internal Medicine

Accepting new patients

View more info
Dr. Michael Codiga
Dr. Michael Codiga, MD

Internal Medicine

Accepting new patients

View more info
Dr. April Greiman
Dr. April Greiman, MD

Internal Medicine

Accepting new patients

View more info
Dr. Thomas Li
Dr. Thomas Li, MD

Internal Medicine