Diabetes and the common cold: Nothing to sneeze at

When selecting a product, pharmacists should counsel these patients on how to manage their sick days.2 Patients should be reminded to take their medications as prescribed and stay consistent with eating meals even if they aren’t hungry. They also should check their blood glucose more frequently (possibly up to every 2–4 hours if they are on insulin or two to four times a day if they are on oral agents). Insulin doses may need adjustment depending on patient status; maintaining close contact with a health care provider and having objective data will assist with optimal management.2 One area in which pharmacists provide tremendous value is assisting patients in selecting the proper dosage form. Many products come in tablet and liquid formulations, though liquid formulations may be less desirable because of their sugar content. Pharmacists should take the time to read the label with patients to ensure the best product is selected and patients understand the exact dose. Remember that although the label may not say “sugar,” the product may list corn syrup, sucrose, sucralose, or other ingredients that can increase blood glucose levels. Many companies now offer sugarfree formulations designed specifi cally for patients with diabetes. Patients also may consider using a cough drop to help with a sore throat and coughing. These products may contain sugar, so patients should be directed to the sugar-free formulations. To help enhance visibility of items you want your patients to purchase, consider creative ways to display products. One idea is to create special end-