What effect do corticosteroids typically have on blood glucose levels?

Corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose levels due to their mechanism of action in the body. These hormones, which include cortisol, promote gluconeogenesis, the process by which the liver produces glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, such as amino acids and glycerol. Additionally, corticosteroids can lead to insulin resistance, which means that cells become less responsive to insulin’s effects, hindering their ability to take up glucose from the bloodstream. This can result in elevated blood glucose levels, particularly in patients who are already at risk for hyperglycemia or those who are diabetic.

The understanding of corticosteroids' impact on blood glucose is crucial in clinical settings, especially when managing patients who are on long-term steroid therapy, as this could necessitate closer monitoring of their blood glucose levels and potentially adjusting their diabetes management plans accordingly.