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The Question
04/20/09 03:54 PM

"Is it normal to have fluctuations in blood sugar levels with bipolar disorder? What about marijuana use?"
Asked By: dbonsall  
Category: Prediabetes

Background Info Hide
40+ year old male with IFG but last 2 FPG >6

Expert Answers (1)

05/27/10 03:52 PM

Hello!

Thanks for asking dLife! Bipolar disorder itself will not cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels. However, atypical antipsychotics, which are used to treat bipolar disorder have been associated with hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), weight gain, and insulin resistance. If you are taking an atypical antipsychotic for bipolar disorder, you should be monitored regularly for worsening of glucose control. Also, monitor yourself for symptoms of hyperglycemia such as excessive thirst, excessive hunger, excessive urination, and weakness. If you develop any of these symptoms while on an antipsychotic, you should be tested for diabetes. These are some atypical antipsychotic medications that are more prone to causing hyperglycemia and weight gain:

  • Zyprexa (olanzapine)
  • Clozaril (clozapine)
  • Seroquel (quetiapine)
  • Risperdal (risperidone)

    As for the second question regarding the effect of marijuana on blood sugar levels – marijuana itself does not cause fluctuations of your blood sugar levels. However, it can indirectly cause alterations in your blood glucose levels. When under the influence, you may be unable to recognize the symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can be very dangerous. It may also cause you to make bad decisions on overeating, which is not advisable for diabetics. If you are taking oral medications or insulin, marijuana use can lead to dangerous dosing errors. Oftentimes, it is not possible to predict what kind of effect marijuana will have on your body. For these reasons, it is not safe for you to experiment with taking marijuana.

    • Answered By: Colleen Fischer
    Accreditations: CVS Pharmacist
    Sources Show

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