The following should be helpful for those patients who either have diabetes or are at risk of getting diabetes who are using steroid medications.
Please make an appointment if you are taking steroids and have any questions about your blood sugar.

CORTICOSTEROIDS
Hyperglycemia can occur with non-oral corticosteroids...topical, inhaled, or local injections. Hyperglycemia is less likely when corticosteroids are given by these routes instead of systemically...but can still occur in susceptible patients.  Topical steroids can cause hyperglycemia when used in chronic or high doses...especially for diffuse conditions such as psoriasis. We monitor blood glucose in patients using high-potency steroids...large steroid doses...or when treatment exceeds 6 months. We are  especially vigilant if patients are at risk for diabetes.  Inhaled steroids can increase the risk of hyperglycemia when used in high doses, such as fluticasone 1000 mcg/day or more. If hyperglycemia occurs, we try to lower the steroid dose and add a bronchodilator or other agent if needed. Steroid injections into joints can cause hyperglycemia for about 2 to 5 days in patients with diabetes...and longer for long-acting steroid formulations. Epidural injections can increase blood glucose up to 2 weeks.

www.kaizentotalwellness.com   (941)556-7788
www.drmishner.com   (941)747-2090