An episode of hypoglycemia can be treated quickly and effectively with 15-20 grams of glucose.1-3
A spoonful of honey from a jar.
A tablespoon of honey can be used as fast-acting for an episode of hypoglycemia.
If glucose is not available, other fast-acting, simple carbohydrate alternatives include a tablespoon of honey, sweets such as jelly beans and 250ml of a non-diet soft drink or fruit juice .2,3
Around 15 minutes after administering the initial treatment, the patient should check their blood glucose level if possible. If it is not over 4.4 mmol/L (80 mg/dL), another 15 grams of glucose should be taken.1
In cases where there is unconsciousness or an inability to swallow, trained health care professionals or carers can treat hypoglycemia by injecting either one milligram of glucagon (which causes the liver to release glucose) under the skin or into the muscles, or 50 mL of a 50% dextrose solution (25 grams) into a vein.1,2
An emergency ambulance should be called for a case involving loss of consciousness or if treatment is not available. Further infusion may follow glucagon or dextrose injection.