This invention relates to agents for treating, ameliorating, or preventing diabetic complications specifically diabetic neuropathy and skin ulceration by topical application of materials containing one or more arterial or venous dilation components and one or more fast sodium channel inhibitors. Particularly, the invention relates to treating or ameliorating agents that contain minoxidil and its related congeners, which have both potassium channel agonist properties and nitric oxide agonist properties as an active ingredient and which are effective against diabetic complications such as neuropathy, peripheral circulation disorders and skin ulcerations. Unique methods of delivery including delivery through impregnated socks or gloves to match the distribution of pain are also noted.