Corticosteroids with glucocorticoid (hyperglycaemic) activity oppose the blood glucose lowering effects of the
antidiabetics. Significant hyperglycaemia has been seen with systemic corticosteroids, and in cases with inhaled
corticosteroids or high- potency topical
corticosteroids.
It would seem prudent to increase blood glucose monitoring when a corticosteroid is started and adjust the antidiabetic treatment accordingly. Routine monitoring of local
corticosteroids appears over-cautious, but be aware that isolated cases of hyperglycaemia have been reported.