Insulin Dependent Diabetic, Sick With Sinus And Chest Infaction, Prescribed Levequin Which Lowered Blood Sugar. Now On Doxycycline

Posted on Fri, 20 Sep 2013

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

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 Answered on

Tue, 15 Oct 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : Type 1 insulin dependent diabetic, sick with sinus and chest infection. MD has prescribed wrong antibiotics over the years to me that have severely lowered my BS.. Im allergic to penicillin, and almost died from Levequin.. And Cipro.. Now he prescribes Doxycycline ... Pharmacist says it lowers BS?! what antibiotic is safe for me???

Answered by Dr. Polash Sannigrahi (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Antibiotics to be decided as per C/S reports

Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXX,

Thanks for your query.

There is no evidence to suggest doxycycline lower blood sugar. I have not heard about any such report. Nor have my colleagues heard of similar reports. Yes, in general antibiotic therapy can bring back your sugars that had gone high secondary to infections. It is well documented fact that infections would increase blood glucose level. So, it is important to constantly monitor your glycemic status while you are taking the course of antibiotics.

In this circumstance when all antibiotic by dealing with infection can lower blood sugar, it would be appropriate to choose the antibiotic based on culture & sensitivity reports.
And as you have an history of allergy to penicillin, it is advisable to get a test dose of the medication which is being prescribed to you.

There is no need to worry, you will be fine.
Please let me know if I can clarify further.
Wishing a good health.
Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad