Hyperglycemia Post-Influenza Vaccine in Patients With Diabetes

Abigail L. Hulsizer, Amy P. Witte, Rebecca L. Attridge, Elizabeth M. Urteaga

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: There are more than 350 reports of hyperglycemia post-influenza vaccine according to the Vaccine Adverse Effect Reporting System. Only one case report has been published detailing unusual post-vaccination hyperglycemia. The mechanism as to why hyperglycemia may occur post-vaccination has not been fully elucidated. Objective: Primary: To identify hyperglycemia within the first 24 hours of influenza vaccine. Secondary: To identify transient property of hyperglycemia within 4 days after vaccine. Methods: Multicenter prospective cohort study. Recruitment conducted throughout San Antonio, Texas, during 2018-2020 influenza seasons. Patients were included if 18 years or older, had diabetes mellitus, and currently checking their blood glucose daily. Patients excluded if they had a recent medication change that would effect their blood glucose readings. Patients had hemoglobin A1c and blood glucose measured prior to vaccination with a single dose (0.5 mL) of the tri-valent influenza vaccine intramuscularly. Glucose readings were collected within 24 hours post-vaccination and subsequent mornings for 4 days. Results: A total of 34 patients were included. Average patient age was 75 years with 60% white, 30% black, and 10% Hispanic. Median fasting glucose pre-vaccination was significantly lower than the median value 0 to 24 hours post-vaccination (140 vs 203 mg/dL, P < 0.0001). Conclusion and Relevance: Hyperglycemia was noted 0 to 24 hours post-vaccination and was transient in nature with a return to baseline by post-vaccination day 2. This trial was conducted to close a potential gap in counseling regarding the flu vaccine and decrease any potential concern surrounding the vaccine in patients with diabetes that could lead to reduced vaccination rates.

Original languageEnglish
JournalAnnals of Pharmacotherapy
DOIs
StateAccepted/In press - 2022

Keywords

  • blood glucose
  • hyperglycemia
  • influenza vaccination
  • pharmacotherapy
  • vaccination

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