On the sides of boxes for cough medicines, allergy medicines, etc... it often says "contact a doctor before using if you are: diabetic, pregnant, high blood pressure, etc... I was wondering: why? I think it's because sugar (glucoses) are high in the "non-medical ingeredients" list, but I'm not sure.
Also, are there any types if meds you use that do not have a negative effect on your diabetes?
It depends on the meds. Sometimes it’s just because of the sugar or alcohol in it, sometimes it contains something like pseudoephedrine which can lead to elevated bgs by increasing insulin resistance. Sites like Drugs.com or MedlinePlus will sometimes give a more elaborate reason.
I usually buy the sugar-free version of cough syrups, but otherwise I’ve had no issues with OTC drugs, including ones with pseudoephedrine. But it’s always good to ask the pharmacist or your doc if it’s something unfamiliar:)
My pharmacist told me a long time ago that some T-2 meds can have an interaction with the ingredients in the OTC cough products. The manufacturer of the cough or allergy meds are just protecting themselves by making the statement to contact your doc. It really isn’t necessary if you are T-1. But look out for hidden sugar in these meds and get the sugar-free ones like Tom said.