Anti-inflammatory drugs reduce inflammation caused by a variety of conditions, including arthritis, menstrual cramps, autoimmune disease and asthma. These drugs are available in two forms -- steroidal and nonsteroidal. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories are the most well known, as they treat minor aches and pains like headaches and sports injuries. Steroidal anti-inflammatories, however, treat more serious conditions like Crohn's disease and asthma. If you're a diabetic, you should understand that some anti-inflammatory drugs can raise your blood glucose levels. You should select your medications with your doctor to avoid complications.
Piroxicam
Piroxicam is usually prescribed for pain and swelling associated with arthritis. Generally speaking, piroxicam tends to lower blood glucose levels, but in some diabetics and non-diabetics, piroxicam caused extremely high glucose levels, according to James Balch in the book "Prescription for Drug Alternatives." Symptoms of high blood sugar include blurry vision, dizziness and fatigue, which may occur while taking this medication. Although you may experience these symptoms, it does not necessarily mean you have high blood sugar. Nonetheless, if symptoms appear, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Celebrex
Although somewhat rare, Celebrex may cause raised blood glucose levels that requires immediate medical attention. Like piroxicam, Celebrex is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory used to treat menstrual pain, arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis -- a chronic disease that causes inflammation in the spinal bones. Common side effects that may indicate high blood sugar include fatigue and frequent urination, although these may be simply side effects of the medication and not an indication of raised glucose levels.
Corticosteroids
Long-term use of steroidal anti-inflammatories, which include corticosteroids, commonly put you at risk for high blood sugar. Prednisone, cortisone and hydrocortisone help treat various medical conditions that range from asthma to lupus. They function by mimicking your body's hormones to suppress inflammation, according to MayoClinic.com. They are available in oral pills, inhalation sprays, topical creams and injections. Additional side effects include loss of bone mineral density, irregularity in your menstrual cycle, thinning skin, high blood pressure and fluid retention.
References
- FamilyDoctor.org: Pain Relievers: Understanding Your OTC Options
- MedlinePlus: Piroxicam
- "Prescription for Drug Alternatives"; James Balch; 2008
- Drugs.com: Celebrex
- MayoClinic.com: Prednisone and Other Corticosteroids
