Mildhypoglycemia symptomscan be treated with high-sugar foods or beverages or with over-the-counter (OTC) glucose tablets or gels.
The American Diabetes Association defines hypoglycemia as a blood glucose level below 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).
These are simple carbohydrates that don’t need to be broken down much during digestion.
Verywell / Laura Porter
Hyperglycemia could require diabetes medications to bring your blood sugar back under control.
Frequent low blood sugar episodes may also be an early sign ofprediabetes.
Your healthcare provider may also recommend lifestyle changes to help prevent hypoglycemia from recurring.
Moreover, because they don’t have to be broken down by the body, they deliver results quickly.
It usually takes just a few minutes for hypoglycemia symptoms to begin to subside.
Most glucose tablets are available in 4-gram (g) tablets.
Typically, three or four tablets are necessary to return blood sugar to normal.
Glucose gel formulations are packaged in single-serve 15-gram tubes.
Your healthcare provider may recommend glucose tablets or gels rather than fast-acting carbs if you have frequent hypoglycemic episodes.
Glucose tablets or gels also may be preferred if you take certain types ofdiabetes medications.
Medications in this class of drugs inhibit the absorption of sucrose (table sugar) and similar simple sugars.
These medications may slow the body’s ability to absorb anything other than pure glucose.
In December 2020, the FDA approved the first generic version of glucagon for injection.
It is less costly than brand name versions but is just as safe and effective.
If your symptoms still do not improve, follow the guidelines below on when to call 911.
Baqsimi is dispensed into a nostril via a pre-filled nasal applicator.
Each dose delivers 3 mg of glucagon in powder form.
Baqsimi is used under the same circumstances as injected glucagon and with similar effectiveness.
In emergency situations, glucagon may be delivered intravenously (into a vein) to rapidly elevate blood sugar.
Once the individual is stabilized, oral glucose or sucrose is administered to help replenish glycogen stores.
Mild hypoglycemia can be treated with fast-acting carbs or OTC glucose products.
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