Which statement best describes the effect of exercise on hypoglycemia risk in a patient taking glyburide?

• A. Exercise has no effect on blood glucose in this context
• B. Extra medication should always be taken before exercise
• C. Exercising can increase the risk of hypoglycemia if an extra pill is taken
• D. Exercise should be avoided entirely while on glyburide

Answer: (C)

Exercise lowers blood glucose by increasing glucose uptake by muscles during activity, while glyburide raises insulin release from the pancreas. When these occur together, glucose can drop more than with either factor alone. Taking an extra glyburide pill before exercising adds more insulin to the mix, raising the likelihood of hypoglycemia during or after the workout. That interaction is why the statement about exercising increasing hypoglycemia risk if an extra pill is taken is the best description. In practice, people on glyburide should monitor their glucose during activity, avoid unnecessary extra doses before exercise, and have quick carbs on hand to treat dips if they occur.