Geodon and Diabetes (Cont.)

Why Might Geodon Cause Diabetes?

It is not entirely clear why Geodon might lead to diabetes. Weight gain is a significant risk factor for diabetes (see Diabetes Risk Factors), and weight gain is a common side effect of Geodon (see Geodon and Weight Gain). Geodon may also have direct effects on blood sugar, through unknown mechanisms. Geodon might also make diabetes more obvious in people with previously undiagnosed diabetes.
 

Final Thoughts on Geodon and Diabetes

It appears that Geodon may increase the risk of diabetes. It is not clear if this is due to weight gain (which often leads to diabetes) or other factors. Regardless of which is the case, since diabetes can have serious health consequences -- and in some cases, may be life-threatening -- your healthcare provider should monitor your blood sugar (and weight) regularly during treatment with Geodon. He or she should also take appropriate steps to prevent or treat diabetes. It is also important that anyone taking Geodon be aware of possible signs or symptoms of diabetes. These include but are not limited to:
 
  • Increased hunger
  • Increased thirst
  • Increased urination
  • Blurred vision
  • Fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nausea or vomiting.
     
If you already have diabetes, be sure to check your blood sugar levels regularly during treatment with Geodon to make sure that your diabetes is not getting worse.

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;