Educational Guide
Medications & Side Effects
A plain-language overview of common diabetes medication classes and their exercise considerations.
Common Medication Classes
| Class (Example) | Purpose | Exercise Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Biguanides (Metformin) | Lowers glucose production | Generally exercise-friendly; stay hydrated |
| Sulfonylureas (Glipizide) | Stimulates insulin release | Higher hypoglycemia risk — monitor closely |
| Meglitinides (Repaglinide) | Rapid insulin release | Watch for lows around meals & training |
| TZDs (Pioglitazone) | Improves insulin sensitivity | Monitor for fluid retention |
| DPP-4 Inhibitors (Sitagliptin) | Enhances natural insulin | Low hypoglycemia risk |
| GLP-1 Agonists (Semaglutide) | Slows digestion, lowers glucose | Hydrate; watch fueling & nausea |
| SGLT2 Inhibitors (Empagliflozin) | Excretes glucose via urine | Prioritize hydration & electrolytes |
| Alpha-glucosidase (Acarbose) | Slows carb absorption | Plan carb timing for training |
| Insulin (all types) | Replaces / supplements insulin | Highest hypoglycemia risk — monitor & fuel |
| Amylin Analogs (Pramlintide) | Slows gastric emptying | Coordinate with meals carefully |
Important
This information is educational only. Medication changes must be made solely under the guidance of a licensed healthcare professional. We coordinate your training around your prescriptions — never around changing them.
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