Sulphonylureas
Medications that increase insulin release to lower blood sugar.
💡 Sulphonylureas help your body produce more insulin — even when blood sugar is not high.
How They Work
Sulphonylureas stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin.
- Increase insulin production
- Lower blood sugar levels
💡 They work quickly but do not depend on food intake.
Benefits
📉 Effective glucose lowering
Can significantly reduce blood sugar levels.
⚡ Fast-acting
Work relatively quickly compared to some other medications.
Risk of Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycaemia)
⚠️ Sulphonylureas can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia).
This happens because insulin is released even if you have not eaten enough.
Common Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar
- Shaking or sweating
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Hunger
💡 Eating regular meals helps reduce the risk of hypoglycaemia.
Common Side Effects
- Weight gain
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)
Important Considerations
- Take regularly as prescribed
- Do not skip meals
- Be cautious with alcohol
⚠️ Skipping meals while taking sulphonylureas increases the risk of hypoglycaemia.
Practical Tips
- Eat regular meals
- Carry a quick source of sugar (e.g. glucose tablets)
- Recognise early symptoms of low blood sugar
Key Takeaway
Sulphonylureas are effective but require careful use to avoid low blood sugar.
💡 Understanding hypoglycaemia is essential when taking this medication.