Treatment of hypoglycaemia

Mild hypoglycaemia:

• Administer any form of rapidly absorbed CHO (e.g. glucose sweets)
• Drowsy individuals should be able to take CHO in liquid form (e.g. Lucozade)
• Beware of giving too much CHO, since this causes rebound hyperglycaemia

Severe hypoglycaemia – unconscious patients:

• IV glucose (25-50ml 50% dextrose solution), followed by a flush of normal saline to preserve the vein

OR

• IM glucagon (1mg)

Glucagon acts by mobilizing hepatic glycogen and works almost as rapidly as glucose. It is simple to administer and can be given by relatives at home. Oral glucose is given to replace glycogen reserves once the patient revives.