HomeAnswersDiabetologydiabetesCan I take medicine for diabetes while on fasting?

I am diabetic and hypertensive and on medication. Can I go for fasting along with medication?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Vinodhini J.

Published At May 18, 2020
Reviewed AtJanuary 18, 2024

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am a 45-year-old female. I have hypertension for four years, and I take Co-Diovan 80/12.5. In the past days, I performed blood sugar tests on Accu-check device and got the following results respectively in four days after eight to ten fasting hours: 283, 364, 420, 483. After the lock-down I will go to a doctor, my question is can I go on fasting and taking the same medicine? What can I do these days to lower the sugar levels?

Answered by Dr. Zulfiqar Ahmed

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

You have diabetes mellitus and your weight is high as well. If you do not have symptoms you can go for fasting. You need to do HBA1c (glycated hemoglobin) which will show your average sugar over two to three months previously. Check your eyes for retinopathy. Kidney function test with urine albumin creatinine ratio. Check your feet and blood sugar frequently when fasting. Lifestyle modifications are the best treatment of diabetes. Low carbohydrates diet and no added sugar, no sugary juices, no bread, rice, pasta, and potatoes. If you cannot stop at least take as little as possible. Take more vegetable salads and consume fruits only as a sweet dish. Do not take mango, grapes, and banana. Apple not more than one piece. Strawberries and other berries are fine. Fasting will also help you to control your diabetes. Drink more water at night. Sleep well. Do regular exercise at least walk 30 to 40 minutes daily. The more you practice these things the better will be your control. You may not need medication even. But if you cannot take Glucophage (Metformin) 500 mg in the morning and evening. Check your sugar frequently. Your fasting target should be 90 to 130 mg/dL, and two hours after eating should be 150 to 160 mg/dL.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Zulfiqar Ahmed
Dr. Zulfiqar Ahmed

Diabetology

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