Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, occurs when the glucose level in the blood drops below a healthy range, typically defined as under 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Glucose is the body’s primary source of energy, and a sudden drop can affect brain function, requiring immediate intervention. Oral glucose medications are specifically formulated to address this acute situation by delivering a precise dose of simple sugar for fast absorption into the bloodstream. This treatment aims to raise blood sugar levels quickly to alleviate symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening.
Specific Commercial Forms of Oral Glucose
Commercial oral glucose products are widely available in several forms, all designed for portability and rapid delivery of simple carbohydrates. The most common form is the glucose tablet, which typically contains pure dextrose and is sold in small, chewable portions. Tablets are convenient because they are shelf-stable and easy to carry, allowing for precise, incremental dosing. A single tablet often contains about four grams of carbohydrate, making it simple to calculate the amount needed for treatment.
Another popular option is the glucose gel, packaged in pre-measured, single-serving tubes or packets. This form is fast-acting because the gel can be squeezed directly into the mouth and swallowed, making it an excellent choice for individuals struggling to chew during a low blood sugar event. Many glucose gels are formulated to contain exactly 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrate, aligning with standard treatment protocols.
Liquid glucose solutions, sometimes marketed as “shots” or “blasts,” offer an alternative to gels and tablets. These are concentrated dextrose drinks consumed quickly for rapid absorption. While the liquid form is easy to ingest, tablets remain the most temperature-resistant and shelf-stable choice, as gels and liquids may be sensitive to extreme heat or cold.
Proper Administration and the 15-15 Rule
The standard protocol for treating mild to moderate hypoglycemia with oral glucose is known as the “15-15 Rule.” This rule begins with the patient consuming 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrate, achieved by taking three to four glucose tablets or one entire tube of glucose gel. The 15-gram measure is sufficient to start correcting the low without causing an excessive spike in blood sugar.
After the initial 15 grams of glucose have been ingested, the patient must wait 15 minutes before checking their blood sugar level again using a glucose meter. This waiting period allows enough time for the simple sugar to be absorbed from the digestive system into the bloodstream. If the blood sugar reading remains below 70 mg/dL, the patient should repeat the entire process by consuming another 15 grams of glucose and waiting another 15 minutes.
Repeating the 15-15 cycle prevents overtreatment, which could lead to excessively high blood sugar levels. Once the blood sugar is back within the target range, the patient should eat a small, balanced snack or meal that contains both carbohydrates and protein, such as half a sandwich or cheese and crackers. This follow-up step is important for stabilizing blood sugar and preventing another episode of hypoglycemia from occurring shortly after the initial treatment.
Commercial oral glucose products should only be administered to a person who is conscious and able to swallow without difficulty. If an individual with hypoglycemia is unconscious or unable to safely ingest the glucose, emergency medical help must be sought immediately. In severe cases, the patient will require a glucagon injection or intravenous dextrose. The 15-15 Rule is a self-management technique for mild to moderate lows, not a substitution for professional medical intervention.
Distinguishing Glucose Products from General Sugary Foods
Commercial glucose products are the preferred treatment over general sugary foods because they contain pure dextrose and are free of fat or protein. Dextrose is a monosaccharide, the simplest form of sugar, which allows it to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream without requiring further digestion. This rapid absorption allows these products to raise blood sugar levels in as little as 10 to 15 minutes.
In contrast, while foods like chocolate bars, ice cream, or granola bars contain carbohydrates, they also contain varying amounts of fat and protein. The presence of these macronutrients significantly slows down the stomach’s emptying process and delays the absorption of sugar into the circulation. Using these foods can prolong the hypoglycemic state, which is dangerous because the brain needs glucose immediately.
Some common alternatives, such as fruit juice or regular soda, are often used in a pinch because they are primarily simple carbohydrates. However, even these contain sucrose, a disaccharide made of one glucose and one fructose molecule. The body must first break down the sucrose, and the fructose component must be processed by the liver before it can fully raise blood sugar, making the response slower than pure dextrose.