Difficult-to-Control Diabetes
Answers to common questions about difficult-to-control diabetes.
Questions on this page
Why is my diabetes difficult to control despite taking medicines?
Possible reasons include:
- Progressive loss of insulin production
- Severe insulin resistance
- Incorrect medication use
- Medication interactions
- Dietary factors
- Inadequate insulin dosing
- Injection technique problems
- Lipohypertrophy
- Infection
- Hormonal disorders
- Psychological or social factors
What is severe insulin resistance?
Severe insulin resistance occurs when unusually large amounts of insulin are required to maintain acceptable glucose levels.
Can hormones cause severe insulin resistance?
Yes. Conditions associated with cortisol or growth hormone excess can cause significant insulin resistance.
Can medications cause difficult-to-control diabetes?
Yes. Glucocorticoids and several other medications can raise blood glucose.
Can insulin resistance be treated?
Yes. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include weight management, lifestyle interventions, diabetes medications and treatment of associated endocrine disorders.