Glucose gel is a readily available product designed to quickly address instances of low blood sugar. It provides a fast-acting source of sugar when blood glucose levels drop below a healthy range. This form of glucose is often kept on hand for situations requiring immediate action to avert more serious issues.
What Glucose Gel Is and How It Works
Glucose gel is primarily composed of dextrose, a simple sugar, combined with water. It has a thick, sweet consistency, similar to maple syrup or frosting, and is often packaged in small, tear-open tubes. This over-the-counter product is designed for convenient and rapid consumption.
The gel’s mechanism involves swift absorption into the bloodstream. When consumed, glucose absorbs through the oral tissues lining the mouth. The remaining gel is then swallowed, allowing further absorption through the digestive system, specifically the small intestine. This dual absorption pathway contributes to its fast effect in raising blood sugar levels.
This rapid delivery helps replenish the body’s primary energy source. Glucose is fundamental for cellular function, especially for the brain, which relies heavily on a consistent supply. Blood glucose concentration typically increases within about 10 minutes of administration.
When Glucose Gel is Used
Glucose gel is primarily utilized for managing hypoglycemia, a condition characterized by abnormally low blood sugar levels. Hypoglycemia can manifest with various symptoms, including sudden sweating, cold skin, shaking, irritability, rapid heartbeat, hunger, blurred vision, dizziness, or tingling in the hands and feet. Untreated low blood sugar can lead to severe complications.
Individuals with diabetes who use insulin are particularly susceptible to episodes of low blood sugar, making glucose gel a common item they carry. While often associated with diabetes management, it may also be used in other situations where a rapid increase in blood glucose is necessary, such as during strenuous physical activity.
The gel acts as a rapid intervention for acute episodes of low blood sugar, rather than a long-term solution. For ongoing maintenance after the initial rise, consuming a more substantial snack, such as crackers or cheese, is often recommended to prevent subsequent drops.
How to Use Glucose Gel Safely
Using glucose gel effectively involves specific steps to ensure safety and proper blood sugar management. It is important to follow the product instructions for administration. Typically, a single dose, often around 15 grams of glucose, is squeezed directly into the mouth and swallowed.
After administering the gel, it is important to recheck blood sugar levels within 10 to 15 minutes to assess its effectiveness. If blood sugar remains low after this period, an additional dose may be taken. However, it is important not to exceed the recommended total maximum dosage, which is often around 30 grams of glucose.
Safety precautions include ensuring the individual is conscious and able to swallow before administering the gel. Glucose gel is not appropriate for unconscious individuals, as there is a risk of choking; in such cases, immediate medical assistance should be sought. If symptoms persist or worsen after two doses within 30 minutes, or if there is no response, it is important to contact a healthcare provider promptly.