Cannabidiol (CBD) for Diabetes Management

by Jessica Pyhtila, PharmD, BCPS, BCGP Cannabidiol has become an increasingly popular supplement in the United States over the past several years. The substance has many purported benefits, ranging from pain control to anxiety relief. Many people with diabetes also wonder if cannabidiol can help to treat their condition, including Continue Reading

The differences between GLP1a non-insulin injectables: which one is right for you?

by Jessica Pyhtila, PharmD, BCPS, BCGP Over the past decade, GLP1a non-insulin injectable products have revolutionized diabetes management. Compared to insulin, they cause less hypoglycemia and often need to be given less frequently than insulin. As of 2022, many different GLP1a products are available. But what is the best way Continue Reading

Long-Acting Versus Ultra Long-Acting Insulins For Diabetes: Which One Is Better?

by Jessica Pyhtila, PharmD, BCPS, BCGP If you have insulin-dependent diabetes, you often will take a long-acting basal insulin such as Lantus (insulin glargine) or Levemir (insulin detemir). This may be in combination with a short-acting insulin like Novolog (insulin aspart). However, within the past few years, several ultra-long-acting insulins Continue Reading

How Do Artificial Sweeteners Impact Diabetes?

by Jessica Pyhtila, PharmD, BCPS, BCGP When you have diabetes, it is crucial to control your sugar intake to keep your blood sugar levels at goal. To achieve this, people with diabetes may want to reduce sugar in their food and drinks. Substituting sugar with artificial sweeteners is one way Continue Reading

Powdered Insulin for Diabetes Control

by Jessica Pyhtila, PharmD, BCPS, BCGP When you think of insulin, you probably think of an injectable medication that you give yourself either with a syringe, insulin pen, or insulin pump. However, an alternative exists. Powdered insulin, also known as inhaled insulin, is a less-common product that nonetheless has a Continue Reading

What Are Continuous Glucose Monitoring Products?

by Jessica Pyhtila, PharmD, BCPS, BCGP When you have diabetes, it can be painful to undergo constant finger-sticks to check your blood sugar. To avoid the need for regular finger-sticks in both those with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, several companies have developed continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) products. If Continue Reading

Comparing and Contrasting Long-acting Insulins

by Jessica Pyhtila, PharmD, BCPS, BCGP If your doctor has told you that you need long-acting insulin, you may be overwhelmed with the number of products available. Although many brand name long-acting insulins are advertised on TV and in print, they represent only three main insulin products. The three main Continue Reading

Diabetes and Mental Health: Depression and Anxiety When You Have Diabetes

by Jessica Pyhtila, PharmD, BCPS, BCGP Having a diabetes diagnosis can be stressful. The everyday burden of managing your blood sugar and overall health can sometimes be overwhelming. This is especially true for those who suffer from mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. Although anyone can be diagnosed with Continue Reading

Diabetic Gastroparesis

by Jessica Pyhtila, PharmD, BCPS, BCGP Diabetic gastroparesis is a common, yet infrequently discussed, complication of diabetes. This condition is a type of nerve damage directly impacting the stomach and, therefore, digestion. Wide swings in blood sugar as well as malnutrition can result from diabetic gastroparesis if left untreated. For Continue Reading