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How Long Does Corticosteroid Shot-induced Blood Sugar Elevation Last?
Question: I take 2 500 mg Metformin per day, and 2 5 mg Glipizide per day. I had a cortisone shot in my spine yesterday and my sugar went up to 396. It came down from midnight to 3 AM to 340. This morning fasting was 256. My question is how long will the effects of the cortisone present and should I let my regular meds bring it down or do I need additional treatment?
Brief Answer:
About corticosteroid and blood sugar...
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Corticosteroid shots may cause high blood sugar persisting for up to 5 days.
If you will not take other shots, then there is no need for additional treatment but you may increase metformin dose 2x1000 mg (if no renal or liver function alterations) for 3-5 days.
If high blood sugar persists, or if you will need further corticosteroid shots then you need to see a physician to modify the treatment.
Hope I have answered your query.
Regards,
Dr. Mirjeta Guni, Endocrinologist
About corticosteroid and blood sugar...
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Corticosteroid shots may cause high blood sugar persisting for up to 5 days.
If you will not take other shots, then there is no need for additional treatment but you may increase metformin dose 2x1000 mg (if no renal or liver function alterations) for 3-5 days.
If high blood sugar persists, or if you will need further corticosteroid shots then you need to see a physician to modify the treatment.
Hope I have answered your query.
Regards,
Dr. Mirjeta Guni, Endocrinologist
Note: For further follow-up, discuss your blood glucose reports with our diabetologist. Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Remy Koshy
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