Publication Date: 9/23/2006
Remember that the information presented here is not intended to replace the care of your own doctor. Before making any changes in the management of your own illness, you should consult your physician or other qualified medical professionals.
Question
Recently, I was told my blood sugar was elevated due to steroids I was taking for an inflamed muscle. I could stand to lose 25-30 pounds, and there is a history of diabetes in my family (my father). My doctor put me on 4 mg of Avandia along with 500 mg of metformin. Once I start taking these drugs, will I need to take them forever?Answers
Not necessarily. If the steroids can be discontinued, your blood glucose levels should improve, and, if you lose weight, your blood sugar levels should also improve.On the other hand, type 2 diabetes is a progressive disorder, so you might find that as time goes by, your blood sugar levels may deteriorate unless you eat right, exercise more, and increase your medications. If your situation does worsen, be sure to discuss this with your physician, or ask for a referral to a diabetes team that can help you!
