Do sulfonylureas cause hypoglycemia?

• A. TRUE
• B. FALSE
• C. Only in combination with metformin
• D. Only in elderly

Answer: (A)

Sulfonylureas raise insulin release from pancreatic beta cells, which can lower blood glucose too much and cause hypoglycemia. They promote insulin secretion regardless of current glucose levels, so if a meal is missed, there’s more exercise, or there’s impaired clearance (due to kidney or liver issues or drug interactions), glucose can drop below normal. This risk is not limited to elderly patients or to use with metformin; it can occur in anyone taking these medications, though it’s more likely in those with factors that raise or prolong the drug’s effects.