If you have diabetes, or if your blood sugar levels are a little high, you probably already know that your blood sugar levels go up when you eat a meal high in carbohydrates or exercise less. But did you know that your blood sugar can also go up when you take medication to help you stay healthy? Let's talk about that today.
What medications can increase blood sugar?
In addition to prescription medications, some over-the-counter (OTC) medications can also be a problem for those who need to control their blood sugar levels. Let's take a closer look at what these are.
The important thing is that just because a medication can increase your blood sugar, it doesn't mean you should stop taking it if you need it. The important thing is to talk to your doctor and decide how to use it safely.
Let's learn more about these medications in the table below.
| Drug category | A simple description and examples |
|---|---|
| Prescription medicine recommended by a doctor | |
| Types of Steroids (Steroids/Corticosteroids) | These are medications that control inflammation in the body. They are used for rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and severe allergies. Examples: Prednisone, Hydrocortisone . However, a topical steroid cream or an inhaler for asthma usually does not have much effect. |
| Medications for mental health problems | Some medications used to treat conditions such as anxiety, ADHD, and depression. Examples: Clozapine, Olanzapine, Quetiapine, Risperidone. |
| Birth Control Pills | Some birth control pills can affect blood sugar because they change hormone levels in the body. |
| Medications for high blood pressure | These include certain medications such as beta-blockers and thiazide diuretics. |
| Cholesterol-lowering drugs (Statins) | These are a commonly used type of medication. For some people, they can cause a slight increase in blood sugar levels. |
| Other specific medications | This may include adrenaline for severe allergies, isotretinoin for acne, tacrolimus after organ transplants, and some medications for HIV/Hepatitis C. |
| Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicines | |
| Medicine for colds | Pseudoephedrine, an ingredient in some cold pills, can increase blood sugar. |
| Cough Syrup | Many cough syrups contain sugar, so it's best to ask your doctor about choosing a sugar-free variety. |
| Niacin | This is a type of B vitamin. It is sometimes given for cholesterol. When taken in high doses, it can increase blood sugar. |
So what do we do? Should we stop taking this medicine?
Absolutely not. The most important thing you need to understand is that a doctor has prescribed a medication for you because the benefits of taking it far outweigh the possible side effects. Therefore, it is never a good idea to stop taking the medication just because you feel like it.
Okay then, what should we do?
Talk openly with your doctor.
This is the most important step. If you have diabetes, be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new medication, even if it's an over-the-counter cold medicine.
Don't forget, even when you're sick (like with a cold or flu), your blood sugar can naturally increase due to stress. So the medication you take may have a small effect.
When you go to see your doctor, tell him about all the medications you're currently taking. Diabetes medication, blood pressure medication, vitamins, even Ayurvedic medications, tell him everything.
What kind of action will the doctor take?
If your doctor knows that a new medication you're taking may affect your blood sugar, he or she may do something like this:
- Reducing the dose of the medication: Sometimes a lower dose can minimize the effect.
- Giving the medicine for a short period of time: You may be asked to use the medicine for the shortest possible time.
- Giving an alternative medicine: If there is another medicine that is not effective, it can be given.
- Check your blood sugar more often: While taking a new medication, you may be asked to test your blood sugar at home a little more often than usual. This will help you identify any changes quickly.
Don't forget what you need to do on your part.
Even if you start a new medication, continue to do the same things you already do to manage your diabetes, even better.
- Proper diet: Follow your diet as advised by your doctor or nutritionist.
- Exercise: Daily exercise increases the body's sensitivity to insulin, which is a great help in controlling blood sugar.
- Take your diabetes medication exactly as prescribed: It is essential to take the diabetes medication prescribed by your doctor at the correct time and in the correct dosage.
Simply put, it's normal for a medication you take for another condition to have a small effect on your blood sugar. There's no need to panic. The important thing is to be aware of it and work with your doctor to manage the condition well.
Take-Home Message
- Your blood sugar can increase due to the steroids you take frequently, some blood pressure medications, and some cough/cold medications.
- It is very important to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking (including vitamins and Ayurvedic medicines).
- Never start a new medication or stop taking one without your doctor's advice.
- If you start a new medication that can affect blood sugar, check your blood sugar levels at home more carefully than usual.
- Continue to follow the basics of a good diet, exercise, and taking your diabetes medication exactly as prescribed.
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