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.

Your family’s health is our priority.

From routine checkups to specialized pediatric care, our family of doctors is here for yours.

Find a Doctor
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
Treatment of Diabetes

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

Read article
Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes and Your Child: Using Insulin

Insulin is given by injection into the fat just under the skin. It's not hard to learn to give insulin injections. Here are tips to help.

Read article
Diabetes
Insulin Replacement Therapy

Learn all about insulin replacement therapy for type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Includes helpful information on different types of insulin, how it is given, insulin injection devices, and pancreas transplants.