Steroid medications, such as prednisone and other synthetic steroids, can cause a rise in blood sugar by blocking the effect of insulin, the hormone responsible for controlling blood sugar. Not everyone taking steroids experiences elevated blood sugar levels or develops type 2 diabetes. The risk is greater with higher doses and longer duration of steroid treatment. If you take steroid medications particularly oral or by injection your doctor may want to measure your blood sugar periodically. This can be done with a simple fasting blood test.
Regular exercise helps reduce blood sugar.
Steroids can increase your appetite, which can lead to weight gain and further increase your risk of diabetes. Control your food portions, and don't overindulge in foods high in sugar and fat. If you already have diabetes and must take steroids for an unrelated condition, discuss it with your doctor. You may need to adjust your diabetes medications to compensate for the effects of the steroids on your blood sugar. Use of this site signifies your agreement to the terms of use .