Prednisone, a glucocorticoid, directly impacts your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar. It does this primarily by increasing glucose production in the liver and decreasing glucose uptake in muscle and fat cells. This leads to elevated blood glucose levels, a condition known as hyperglycemia.
Specifically, prednisone interferes with insulin’s action. Insulin is the hormone responsible for transporting glucose from the bloodstream into cells for energy. Prednisone reduces insulin sensitivity, meaning your cells become less responsive to insulin, resulting in higher blood sugar.
The severity of this effect depends on several factors, including the prednisone dosage, duration of treatment, and individual patient factors such as pre-existing conditions like diabetes. Higher doses and longer treatment periods generally cause more significant increases in blood glucose.
Patients taking prednisone should monitor their blood sugar regularly, especially if they have a history of diabetes or risk factors for diabetes. Frequent blood glucose monitoring allows for timely adjustments in medication or lifestyle changes, preventing severe hyperglycemia.
Regular exercise and a balanced diet, low in simple carbohydrates and high in fiber, can help mitigate the impact of prednisone on blood sugar. Consult your doctor or a registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice. Your healthcare provider can also discuss appropriate blood glucose monitoring frequency and strategies to manage any hyperglycemia.
