Medication & Blood Sugar: Understanding Potential Impacts

People with diabetes need to be aware of anything that might throw their blood glucose levels out of control. Before starting a new medication, it' a good idea to ask your doctor or pharmacist about its potential impact on blood sugar. It's also important to test blood sugar more frequently when taking a new medication.

Birth Control Pills

• Depending on the formulation, birth control pills may cause a rise in blood glucose.

Cough Syrup

• Cough syrup often have high amounts of sugar and alcohol. Sugar-free versions of cough syrup are widely available.

Antacids

• Antacids, such as Rolaids and Tums, have some sugar in them which could cause blood sugar levels to rise, especially if taken in large amounts.

Corticosteroids

• Corticosteroids such as prednisone can cause blood glucose to rise significantly. Corticosteroids change how the body uses glucose and makes the body more resistant to insulin.

Blood Pressure Medication

• Blood pressure medication will often raise blood glucose levels. For example, one of the listed side effect for the beta blocker Metoprolol is the risk of causing hyperglycemia.