Steroid-induced Diabetes

Chikara Gothong, M.D., Rachel Derr, M.D., Elias K. Spanakis, M.D.

DEFINITION

  • Glucocorticoids (GC) such as prednisone, dexamethasone and hydrocortisone, are potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive agents, thus effective for treating a wide spectrum of diseases.
  • Hyperglycemia, primarily resulting from impaired glucose transport into muscles, is a common adverse effect[19].
  • GC-induced hyperglycemia: diabetes-range hyperglycemia in subjects who have normal glucose tolerance when not taking GC.

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Last updated: October 9, 2022