There is evidence that glucocorticoids (GC) or corticosteroids and diabetes are linked. Corticosteroids are used in relation to protein, carbohydrate, lipid, and nucleic metabolism, as well as inflammation and immune response both of which are related to diabetes. Rachel Derr, M.D. defines the effect of GCs on hyperglycemia as impaired transport of glucose to the muscles. The link between diabetes and corticosteroids, particularly in the elderly population, can be found both in the prevalence of corticosteroid use with 10% of inpatients over the age of 60 using some form and 3% of outpatients with prescriptions. Of the 10%, 54-65% had GC-induced hyperglycemia without history of diabetes. The risk of requiring a new form of diabetes medication doubled in outpatients and those suffering chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Instance of Diabetes and Corticosteroids Use in the Elderly Population,

In a study presented to the Society of General Internal Medicine, …