What is a potential exercise-related risk when GLP-1 receptor agonists are used with a sulfonylurea?

What is a potential exercise-related risk when GLP-1 receptor agonists are used with a sulfonylurea?

• A. Causes dehydration
• B. Increases insulin sensitivity
• C. May increase risk of hypoglycaemia
• D. Increases appetite

Answer: (C)

When GLP-1 receptor agonists are used with a sulfonylurea, the main exercise-related risk is hypoglycemia. GLP-1 receptor agonists lower blood glucose mainly by boosting insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent way and by slowing gastric emptying, so they have a relatively low risk of causing hypoglycemia on their own. Sulfonylureas, however, stimulate insulin release regardless of current glucose levels, which can push glucose down more persistently. During exercise, muscles use more glucose and energy demands rise, so the combination increases the chance that blood sugar drops too low. The other options don’t fit this specific scenario: dehydration can occur with GLP-1 receptor agonists but isn’t the primary exercise-related risk here; these agents don’t increase insulin sensitivity or appetite—in fact, they often suppress appetite.

When GLP-1 receptor agonists are used with a sulfonylurea, the main exercise-related risk is hypoglycemia. GLP-1 receptor agonists lower blood glucose mainly by boosting insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent way and by slowing gastric emptying, so they have a relatively low risk of causing hypoglycemia on their own. Sulfonylureas, however, stimulate insulin release regardless of current glucose levels, which can push glucose down more persistently. During exercise, muscles use more glucose and energy demands rise, so the combination increases the chance that blood sugar drops too low. The other options don’t fit this specific scenario: dehydration can occur with GLP-1 receptor agonists but isn’t the primary exercise-related risk here; these agents don’t increase insulin sensitivity or appetite—in fact, they often suppress appetite.