icon-nav-help
Need Help

Submit your question to our team of health care professionals.

icon-nav-current-questions
Current Question

See what's on the mind of the community right now.

icon-conf-speakers-at-a-glance
Meet the Team

Learn more about our world-renowned team.

icon-nav-archives
CWD Answers Archives

Review the entire archive according to the date it was posted.

CWD_Answers_Icon
September 26, 2003

Other Medications

advertisement
Question from Ohio, USA:

My five year old daughter, who has type 1 diabetes, just got her shots for school. Will they affect the blood sugar in any way?

Answer:

From: DTeam Staff

The stress of having a shot and the possibility of a mild reaction to the shot might transiently raise blood sugar levels, but that is all.

DOB
Additional comments from Dr. Stuart Brink:

Immunizations don’t have a direct effect on insulin action, but, if they are modified live viruses and cause a mild “infection”, this may be like any other infection and require added insulin. Usually, this is not a big issue, but closely watching blood glucose levels will let you know if there is a change.

Similarly, if the sugars rise, watching blood or urine ketone levels will let you know how much extra insulin is required. If any doubts, contact your daughter’s diabetes team for specific advice. Kids (and adults) who have diabetes and need immunizations should receive them since the benefits far outweigh any sick day issues.

SB