Low-Dose Glucagon Reduces Exercise-Induced Hypoglycemia in Type 1 Diabetes, finds study
Exercise can dramatically lower blood glucose levels and trigger hypoglycemia in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D), even when insulin doses are adjusted. A new systematic review and meta-analysis, published in Diabetes Care, found that low-dose glucagon effectively reduces the risk of exercise-induced hypoglycemia and time spent below target glucose range (TBR) in this population.
The authors pooled data from 12 randomized and crossover trials involving 248 adolescents and adults with T1D. Low-dose glucagon reduced the risk of hypoglycemic events by about 46%, with a pooled risk ratio of 0.54 (95% CI 0.35–0.84). It also lowered TBR by an average of approximately 3.9 percentage points (95% CI –6.27 to –1.54), indicating a meaningful reduction in time spent with glucose below 3.9 mmol/L. Despite these promising effects, low-dose glucagon was associated with a higher rate of mild adverse events-a pooled risk ratio of 2.75 (95% CI 1.07–7.08)-though most were mild gastrointestinal symptoms or injection-site discomfort.
The authors emphasize that optimizing the dose and timing of glucagon relative to different exercise types and durations requires further investigation to ensure real-world effectiveness and safety.
They also note varying methodologies across included studies, suggesting cautious interpretation and the need for standardized protocols in future work. Clinically, this analysis supports using low-dose glucagon as an adjunctive strategy for preventing exercise-induced hypoglycemia in T1D, especially for active individuals facing daily glucose fluctuations. It can offer an alternative to carbohydrate loading-which may interrupt activity or risk hyperglycemia-while maintaining glycemic stability.
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.