Skip to content

Read more about Healthfirst in-network coverage.

Non-Diabetes Medicines That May Raise Blood Sugar

Make an Appointment

Our team is here to help you make an appointment with the specialists that you need.

877-426-5637Telehealth Services
Find a Doctor

Top of the page

Non-Diabetes Medicines That May Raise Blood Sugar

Overview

Some medicines for conditions other than diabetes can raise your blood sugar level. This is a concern when you have diabetes. Make sure every doctor you see knows about all of the medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements you take. This means anything you take with or without a prescription.

Examples include:

  • Thiazide diuretics.
  • Corticosteroids.
  • Birth control pills (oral contraceptives) and progesterone.
  • Catecholamines.
  • Decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine.
  • The B vitamin niacin. The risk of high blood sugar from niacin lowers after you have taken it for a few months.
  • Some antipsychotic medicines.

Credits

Current as of: July 7, 2025

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 7, 2025

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.

© 2024-2025 Ignite Healthwise, LLC.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

NOTICE: This health information was not created by Columbia University Irving Medical Center and may not necessarily reflect specific CUIMC practices. For medical advice to your personal condition, please consult your doctor. Medical advice disclaimer.