Corticosteroid Blood Sugar: How Steroids Raise Glucose and What to Do

When you take corticosteroid, a class of anti-inflammatory drugs used for conditions like asthma, arthritis, and autoimmune diseases. Also known as steroids, they work by calming the immune system—but they also mess with how your body handles sugar. That’s why many people notice their blood sugar climbing after starting a course of prednisone or dexamethasone—even if they’ve never had diabetes before.

This isn’t just a side effect; it’s a direct metabolic change. corticosteroid-induced hyperglycemia, a rise in blood glucose caused by steroid use happens because these drugs make your liver pump out more glucose and block insulin from doing its job. It’s like your body suddenly forgets how to store sugar properly. People with prediabetes or a family history of type 2 diabetes are most at risk, but even healthy adults can see fasting glucose jump by 30% or more. This isn’t temporary fluff—it’s a real, measurable shift that needs attention.

And it’s not just about numbers on a meter. High blood sugar from steroids can lead to fatigue, frequent urination, blurry vision, and slower healing. For someone with heart disease or kidney issues, this extra stress can make things worse. That’s why doctors often check blood sugar before and during steroid treatment, especially for doses over 20 mg of prednisone daily or longer than two weeks. If you’re on a long course, your provider might suggest monitoring at home or even starting a low-dose medication like metformin to keep things in check.

You’ll also find that not all steroids affect blood sugar the same way. Oral and IV forms hit hardest because they go straight into your bloodstream. Topical creams and inhalers? Much less likely to cause trouble—unless you’re using them heavily over large areas for months. The key is knowing your dose, your duration, and your risk level. If you’ve gained weight, have high blood pressure, or get tired easily after meals, those are red flags that your body is struggling with the extra sugar load.

What’s in the posts below? Real stories and science-backed tips from people who’ve dealt with this exact problem. You’ll find advice on managing blood sugar while on corticosteroid therapy, how to adjust your diet when your body won’t cooperate, and what to ask your doctor before starting or stopping treatment. There’s also info on how other medications—like diuretics or beta-blockers—can make the issue worse. No fluff. No guesswork. Just clear, practical steps you can use whether you’re taking steroids for a flare-up or a chronic condition.