Q. My mother has type 2 diabetes and has had a terrible time getting her blood sugar under control even though she takes metformin and Actos. I suspect that the risperidone she takes for her nerves and the Lipitor for lowering cholesterol might be making this harder.
Are there any natural approaches that might help her keep her blood sugar and cholesterol under control?
A. Dozens of drugs can make blood sugar control more difficult. Diuretics for hypertension such as hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), certain beta blockers such as Coreg, the arthritis medicine Celebrex and the antipsychotic drugs Risperdal (risperidone), Seroquel and Zyprexa can all raise blood sugar. Higher blood sugar has also been reported as a side effect of Lipitor (Journal of Atherosclerosis and Thrombosis, June, 2009).
Your mother needs to discuss her medications with her doctor and ask about alternatives for risperidone and Lipitor. Our new book, Favorite Foods: Mother Nature’s Medicine has suggestions for food remedies to help control blood sugar as well as cholesterol. It is available online at www.peoplespharmacy.com.
Risperidone has been linked to an increased risk of diabetes. Anyone taking this medicine must be monitored very carefully.
