When you take steroid-induced diabetes, a form of high blood sugar triggered by corticosteroid medications. It’s not the same as type 1 or type 2 diabetes, but it behaves similarly—your body can’t use insulin properly, and sugar builds up in your blood. This isn’t rare. People on long-term prednisone, dexamethasone, or other corticosteroids for asthma, arthritis, or autoimmune conditions often see their blood sugar climb. It’s a side effect, not a mistake, and it’s something your doctor should monitor.
What makes this different? corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory drugs that suppress the immune system. These drugs tell your liver to release more glucose, while also making your muscles and fat cells less responsive to insulin. That’s called insulin resistance, when cells stop reacting to insulin’s signal to absorb sugar. The result? Sugar stays in your bloodstream. You might not feel sick at first—no thirst, no frequent urination—but your numbers will climb. That’s why blood tests matter, especially if you’re on steroids for more than a few weeks.
Some people bounce back after stopping the medication. Others develop lasting type 2 diabetes. Risk factors include being overweight, having a family history of diabetes, or being over 45. Even healthy people can get it. If you’re on steroids, ask your doctor for a fasting glucose test before you start and again after a few weeks. Watch for fatigue, blurry vision, or dry mouth—those are red flags.
Managing it isn’t about cutting carbs alone. It’s about timing meals, tracking sugar levels, and sometimes using metformin or insulin short-term. Many people avoid steroids because they fear this side effect, but that’s not always safe. The key is awareness. Work with your doctor to balance the benefits of the drug with your metabolic health. You don’t have to guess. There are clear steps you can take to protect yourself.
Below, you’ll find real, practical advice from people who’ve dealt with this exact issue. You’ll see how support groups help with daily management, how certain drugs affect blood sugar long-term, and what to do when your meds change. This isn’t theory—it’s what works when you’re living with steroid-induced diabetes every day.
Corticosteroids like prednisone can cause dangerous spikes in blood sugar-even in people without diabetes. Learn how steroids trigger hyperglycemia, who's at risk, and how to manage it safely with insulin and lifestyle changes.