Can Cortisone Shots Cause Elevation Of Cholesterol And Blood Sugar Levels?

Posted on Wed, 11 Feb 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 11 Feb 2015 Answered on

Thu, 12 Mar 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi. I had a cortisone shot in my shoulder and 2 weeks later had a blood test. My test results showed that my chloresterol, blood sugar, and HDK had spiked. Is it possible that was due to my cortisone shot? I also had been taking vitamin D, fish oil and one a day men's vitamins daily. Help please.

Answered by Dr. Ronald Schubert (12 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
One steroid injection not cause of elevated choesterol or blood sugar

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for contacting HCM with your health care concerns

You recently had a steroid injection in your shoulder and 2 weeks later your blood work showed elevated cholesterol and blood sugar. Steroids over along period of time can cause elevation in blood sugar and cholesterol but that is usually only after several injections or long term use of steroids. After only one injection would be nearly impossible. But to be sure I would recommend that you start a good diet low in carbohydrates and low in fat. Then in about 1-2 months recheck you cholesterol and blood sugars again.

I also recommend that you continue with the vitamin D, fish oil and one a day men's vitamins. As these will continue to help with your overall health

In summary
1. one steroid injection not likely cause of elevated cholesterol or blood sugars
2. I recommend low carbohydrate and low fat diet fro 2 months
3. Recheck blood work in 2 months
4. continue supplemental vitamin D one a day vitamins and fish oil.

I hope I answered your question. Please contact HCM again with your health care concerns or questions. You may contact me again if you have any additional questions or comments

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad