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Corticosteroids in diabetes — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateRespiratory TherapeuticsCorticosteroids in diabetesGPhC CRA

A 66-year-old woman with COPD presents a new prescription for prednisolone 30 mg once daily for five days for an acute exacerbation. She also takes lansoprazole 30 mg once daily and metformin 500 mg twice daily for type 2 diabetes. What is the most important counselling point for this patient?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: C — She should monitor her blood glucose more frequently as prednisolone can increase blood sugar levels

Corticosteroids can significantly increase blood glucose levels, which is especially important for patients with diabetes. The patient should be advised to monitor her blood glucose more frequently during the short course and to contact her GP if readings are persistently elevated. A five-day rescue course of prednisolone for a COPD exacerbation does not require tapering. Prednisolone should be taken with food to reduce GI irritation.

Reference: BNF; NICE NG115 COPD