People with type 1 diabetes must take insulin every day because their pancreas does not produce it. Insulin helps blood sugar (glucose) enter the body's cells to be used for energy. Insulin can be given as an injection into the fatty tissue under the skin or through an insulin pump.

Usually people with type 1 diabetes take a combination of types of insulin, such as a long-acting insulin once or twice a day and a rapid-acting insulin before each meal. The amount and type of insulin needed varies for each person. Also, the amount and type of insulin needed changes over time, depending on age, hormones (such as during rapid growth or pregnancy), and changes in exercise routine. In addition, a person may need higher doses of insulin during times of illness or emotional stress.

Other medications may be needed if a person develops complications from diabetes, such as kidney disease.

A person also may need medications to treat high blood pressure or high cholesterol and help prevent complications from diabetes. If you are 30 or older, talk to your health professional about taking a low-dose aspirin daily to help prevent heart attack, stroke, or other large blood vessel disease.