Effect of dexamethasone on blood glucose and renal function integrity in non-diabetic COVID-19 patients: assessment of therapeutic risks and benefits

Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) is a group of acute, rare respiratory conditions that appeared in Wuhan, China, and quickly expanded all over the world, developed from a virus known as SARS-CoV-2. The study aimed to reveal the impact of dexamethasone (DXM) treatment on blood glucose levels and renal function integrity in non-diabetic COVID-19 patients, providing a clearer understanding of its potential benefits and risks. The investigation includes a total of 170 samples. Eighty-five COVID-19 patients (41 males and 44 females); 55 patients had DXM treatment, while 30 patients had never received DXM treatment. Additionally, eighty-five healthy controls matched in age and sex to the patients. Colorimetric methods are used to measure parameters. Results show highly significant differences in fasting blood sugar (FBS), D-dimer, CRP, and renal function biomarkers level between patients and healthy controls. Also showed a significant change in FBS, CRP, and renal function integrity between dexamethasone-treated patients compared to non-dexamethasone-treated patients. Spearman rank correlation between patients shows a positive correlation between FBS and creatinine with (r = 0.29, p = 0.007); also, non-dexamethasone patients show a positive correlation between FBS and creatinine with (r = 0.404, p = 0.027). DXM has been used in the treatment of severe COVID-19 cases due to its anti-inflammatory action and immunosuppressive properties, reduce deaths in mechanical ventilation patients. However, its use is associated with metabolic and renal alterations, even in non-diabetic patients. That underscore the need for cautious use of DXM and close monitoring of glucose and kidney function during therapy.