Which is a common adverse effect of sulfonylureas?

Which is a common adverse effect of sulfonylureas?

• A. Hypoglycemia
• B. Hyperglycemia
• C. Hypertension
• D. Weight gain

Answer: (A)

Sulfonylureas stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin. Because insulin is increased, blood glucose can drop too low, leading to hypoglycemia. This is the most common and characteristic adverse effect of this drug class, especially if a dose is high, meals are skipped, kidney or liver function is impaired, or other drugs interact. Hypertension isn’t related to how these drugs work, and while some patients may gain weight due to higher insulin levels, hypoglycemia remains the core safety concern.

Sulfonylureas stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin. Because insulin is increased, blood glucose can drop too low, leading to hypoglycemia. This is the most common and characteristic adverse effect of this drug class, especially if a dose is high, meals are skipped, kidney or liver function is impaired, or other drugs interact. Hypertension isn’t related to how these drugs work, and while some patients may gain weight due to higher insulin levels, hypoglycemia remains the core safety concern.