ORAL GLUCOSE TABLETS

Your sweet relief from hypoglycemia.

Oral Glucose tablets are chewable tablets made from sugar (glucose), offer a rapid and convenient solution to elevate low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia) in individuals with diabetes, typically defined as blood glucose below 70 mg/dL.

Hypoglycemia can result from various factors, including excessive insulin intake and insufficient carbohydrate consumption.

Additionally, individuals with type 1 diabetes may experience low blood glucose due to exercise.

While a snack or sugary drink can help address low blood sugar, glucose tablets act faster and more effectively. They serve as a preventive measure against severe complications of low blood sugar, like seizures.

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WHAT IS GLUCOSE?

Glucose, also known as blood sugar, is the primary sugar present in your bloodstream. It originates from the food you consume and serves as the primary energy source for your body. Your blood distributes glucose to all cells for energy utilization. Maintaining a balanced blood sugar level is crucial to prevent both hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and hypoglycemia.

Under normal circumstances, insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, facilitates the transfer of glucose from the blood into cells for energy usage. However, if an individual with high blood sugar takes excessive insulin to reduce it, it can cause a depletion of sugar in the bloodstream, resulting in low blood sugar. This situation is particularly common among individuals with type 1 diabetes.

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COMMON SYMPTOMS OF HYPOGLYCEMIA?

Common signs of hypoglycemia encompass:

- Rapid heartbeat
- Trembling or shaking
- Excessive sweating
- Feelings of nervousness or anxiety
- Irritability or confusion
- Dizziness
- Increased hunger

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If left unattended, as blood sugar levels continue to decrease, an individual may progress into severe low sugar territory. Severe low blood sugar is classified as below 54 mg/dL, and it can potentially cause loss of consciousness.

Serious symptoms of hypoglycemia consist of:

- Weakness
- Difficulty walking or experiencing blurry vision
- Changes in behavior or confusion
- Seizures

For individuals with diabetes, low blood sugar episodes can occur frequently, sometimes once or twice a week, even when carefully managing their blood sugar levels.

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HOW TO USE GLUCOSE TABLETS?

Oral Glucose tablets are specifically designed to rapidly and effectively address hypoglycemia. While sugary snacks or beverages are viable options, glucose tablets are formulated to dissolve with precise dosages for prompt action.

To achieve improved blood sugar levels, it is essential to acquire glucose tablets at the appropriate dosage and use them correctly. Consult your healthcare provider to determine the suitable dosage to keep on hand, with the typical recommendation being 15 grams, equivalent to about four glucose tablets.

Here's how to use glucose tablets:

1. Confirm low blood sugar level using a glucometer.
2. Take three to four glucose tablets.
3. Wait for 15 minutes and then recheck your blood sugar level.
4. If blood sugar levels remain low (< 70 mg/dL), consume another three to four glucose tablets.
5. Repeat the process until blood sugar rises above 70 mg/dL.

Once hypoglycemia is under control, it's crucial to stabilize your blood sugar by consuming a snack or meal. This can include options like apples with peanut butter or crackers with cheese.

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Before making any glucose tablet purchases, it's essential to consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations, the appropriate dosage, and detailed guidance on their usage.

Glucose tablets are available over the counter at drug stores and online. To check if your insurance plan covers them, consider contacting your insurance company.

Keep in mind that glucose tablets come with an expiration date. It's advisable to use them before this date, as over time, the tablets may harden and lose their effectiveness. Although there are no specific storage requirements, ensure they are kept out of reach of children.

Some popular glucose tablet products include:
- Glucorade Shots Glucose Tablets
- Dex4 Fast Acting Glucose
- Glucolift Glucose Tablets

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​Seek medical help if you are experiencing symptoms and don't have a glucometer if your symptoms are severe or if your symptoms aren't improving after taking glucose tabs or eating.

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