Steroids and Diabetes

[crimson]

I just heard this from a friend but is it true that steroids can send more blood gluecose reading higher or steroids induced diabetes?

[naturelover]

I believe that regular usage of steroids does cause diabetes from going through the links. I wish members suppose to consult with their Rheumatologist to get a clear picture.

There are mild to severe side effects associated with prednisone use. The side effects occur more frequently with high-dose or long-term use of prednisone.

# Weight gain/Obesity
# High blood pressure
# Elevated blood sugar
# Elevated blood fats

source: http://arthritis.about.com/od/prednisone/a/prednisonefacts.htm



Research Suggests How Steroids Cause Diabetes And Hypertension; Liver Plays Critical Role

Steroids called glucocorticoids are critical for treating diseases such as asthma, arthritis and pain syndromes, but they also can trigger diabetes and hypertension. Research at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis now shows why these commonly used drugs have such dangerous side effects.

The team found that a protein called peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-alpha) is critical in this process and that the liver plays a key role. The findings help explain the high incidence of diabetes and hypertension in obese individuals, a group that normally produces significantly more glucocorticoids than people of average weight.

"Glucocorticoids are very effective for treating many diseases," says first author Carlos Bernal-Mizrachi, M.D., instructor of medicine. "If we can understand the mechanisms by which these drugs cause side effects like diabetes and hypertension, we may be able to intervene and prevent these disorders in people who are taking steroids and in people who are obese."



full details at: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2003/07/030721085236.htm

[prasanth5]

It is understood from some of the articles which I recently that patients prefer the intake of steroids to reduce the pain from rheumatoid arthritis. Steroids with the combination of a variety of salts is recommended in the subjugation of pain.

[crimson]

Interesting and very helpful. Nice information there nature and I appreciate it a lot.

[Terrie]

Yes, both are true. I've been on steroids for almost 4 years now. This is the 4th time my drugs stopped working. When the other drugs don't work, we don't have a choice. Good info Naturelover.