5 Questions to Ask Your Pharmacist After a Diabetes Diagnosis | Broadway Care Brooklyn

Quick Takeaways: The "Cheat Sheet" for New Patients

• You Are Not Alone: Pharmacists are the most accessible healthcare providers; you don't need an appointment to talk to us.

• Timing is Everything: Knowing when to take your meds (e.g., with food) can stop side effects before they start.

• Save Your Money: Asking about generics and insurance coverage can lower your monthly costs significantly.

• Master the Tech: We can teach you how to use your glucose meter or insulin pen so you aren't guessing at home.

• We Are Your Neighbors: Broadway Care Pharmacy (1538 Pitkin Ave) offers free delivery and personalized consults to keep you on track.

Introduction: The Doctor Gave You the Diagnosis, We Give You the Plan

Receiving a diabetes diagnosis can feel overwhelming. You leave the doctor's office with a head full of worries and a prescription you might not understand. By the time you get to the pharmacy counter, you just want to grab your bag and go home.

But wait.

Your time at the pharmacy counter is your best opportunity to take control of your health. At Broadway Care Pharmacy, we aren't just here to count pills. We are part of your care team. Unlike a busy doctor's office, you can talk to us right now, without an appointment.

Next time you pick up a prescription at our Pitkin Avenue location, ask these 5 questions. The answers could change your life.

1. "When and how exactly should I take this to avoid side effects?"

"Take once a day" isn't enough information. The timing of your medication can be the difference between feeling great and feeling sick.

• Food Matters: Some drugs, like Metformin, should be taken with a meal to prevent stomach upset. Others, like certain Glipizide formulations, might need to be taken 30 minutes before a meal.

• Consistency: Ask if you should take it in the morning or at night. Taking it at the same time every day helps keep your blood sugar steady.

Ask us: "Should I take this with my largest meal? What happens if I take it on an empty stomach?"

2. "Does this interact with my other vitamins or medications?"

You might think your daily vitamin or the cold medicine you take occasionally is harmless, but they can sometimes clash with diabetes medications.

• Hidden Sugars: Some over-the-counter cough syrups or supplements contain sugar that can spike your glucose. We can point you toward sugar-free options.

• The "Polypharmacy" Problem: If you see different doctors for different things, they might not know everything you are taking. Your pharmacist sees the whole picture.

Ask us: "I take a multivitamin/herbal supplement. Is that safe to take with this new prescription?"

3. "What should I do if I miss a dose?"

It happens to everyone. You get busy, you forget, and suddenly it's 3:00 PM. Do you take it now? Do you skip it? Do you double up tomorrow?

• The Broadway Solution: If you have trouble remembering, ask us about Medication Synchronization. We can line up all your refills to happen on the same day, or pack them in blister packs so you can see exactly what you've taken.

• The Danger of Doubling Up: For many diabetes medications, taking two doses too close together can cause hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar).

Ask us: "If I forget my morning pill, is it safe to take it at lunch, or should I wait until tomorrow?"

4. "Can you show me how to use this device?"

If you were prescribed a glucose meter (to test your blood sugar) or an insulin pen, don't leave the store until you open the box.

• Fear Factor: Many patients avoid testing because they are afraid of doing it wrong. A 5-minute demo with us can remove that fear.

• Hands-On Training: Reading the manual is confusing. Let our pharmacists show you exactly how to load the lancet, where to prick your finger (hint: the side is less painful!), and how to read the numbers.

Ask us: "Can we open this box together so I can try it while you watch?"

5. "Is there a less expensive version of this medication?"

Diabetes care can be expensive, but you have options.

• Insurance & Medicaid: We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and most private insurance plans. We can help you understand your copay or find manufacturer coupons to lower the cost.

• Supplies: Ask if your insurance covers your testing strips or diabetic shoes (DME). We carry these supplies right here in Brownsville.

• Generics: Brand-name drugs often have a "generic" equivalent that has the exact same active ingredients but costs a fraction of the price.

Ask us: "Is there a generic available for this? Are there any patient assistance programs that can help with the cost?"

Your Health is Our Priority at Broadway Care

You don't have to navigate diabetes alone. Whether you live in Brownsville, East New York, or anywhere in Brooklyn, our team is here to answer your questions and ease your mind.

Visit Us Today: 📍 Address: 1538 Pitkin Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11212 📞 Phone: (718) 495-1122 🚚 Services: Free Delivery, Medicaid/Medicare Accepted, Diabetic Supplies, Expert Counseling.

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only. Always consult your physician or pharmacist for medical advice specific to your condition.