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11/01/09 09:12 PM

"Even though I watch my diet carefully, my bg has not come down to proper # after finishing a course of prednisone. Could I have ruined my pancreas?"
Asked By: daisyrose2  
Category: Blood Glucose Monitoring

Background Info Hide
Type II; 100 mg Januvia once per day; 10 mg glyburide twice a day. Walk for excercise. Watch diet carefully

Expert Answers (1)

12/05/09 08:53 PM

Hello DaisyRose2: Thanks for asking dLife, and no I cannot say a 'course of prednisone' would ruin your pancreas.
  • (I apologize for the tardiness of our response and hope the glucose numbers have resolved).Great job with the dietary management and exercise.

    Prednisone, is a very effective medication used in chronic illnesses and conditions, and has a duration of action up to 16-20 hours, belonging to a group of medications classified as Glucocorticoid. The glucocorticoids, while effective in one area, can also cause significant hyperglycemia, as you have experienced. The resulting hyperglycemia is dependent on the type of glucocorticoid, route of administration, dosages amount, and frequency, as well as diabetes medications used. As you may already know; Glycemic control for the post steroid therapy period is to avoid the excesses of hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. At what times, in relationship to prednisone therapy, are the glucose numbers elevated?

    When the prednisone treatments occur, self-blood glucose monitoring is very important and may need to be increased. When the glucose levels continue to be elevated, insulin replacement therapy is necessary, consequent, and follow-up with your Personal Care Physician (PCP). As you have experienced, many factors can elevate the glucose readings: Yes,

  • diet will raise glucose, in the first 2 hours after a meal the numbers reflect the carbs, then protein, then fat-slightly:
  • exercise, usually, will bring the glucose readings down but, can also cause them to escalate
  • stressors, illness, injury, and the medications you've experienced.

    If you have been using an insulin regimen, (which may be short lived), I'm sure you are aware of the balance between glucocorticoid and insulin. Hope all continues to be well, be your best. ADA's ABC's:

  • A1C<7%
  • Blood pressure<130/80 mmHg
  • Total cholesterol<200
  • HDL>50 in women, >40 in men
  • LDL<100
  • Triglycerides<150 mg/dl.
    Regards Sue
    • Answered By: Susan Throop
    Accreditations: RD, CDE, MA
    Sources Show

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