Oral Glucose

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the administration and characteristics of oral glucose in a paramedic context.

Glucose (oral)

A monosaccharide used to treat hypoglycemia, supplied in 25 g tubes.

Insta-glucose

The trade name for oral glucose, a form of glucose gel.

Indications for Oral Glucose

Hypoglycemia in alert patients who can follow commands and swallow.

Dosage for Adults/Pediatrics

25 g orally, may repeat in 5 minutes if necessary, up to a maximum of 50 g.

Contraindications for Oral Glucose

Not for patients who are not alert, unable to follow commands, or lack a gag reflex.

Precautions for Administering Glucose

May cause nausea; patient may gag when administered.

Administration Note

Oral glucose must be swallowed; not absorbed sublingually or buccally.

Onset of Action for Glucose Gel

Acts slowly, increasing blood glucose less than 1 mmol/l over 20 minutes.

Follow-up Treatment after Hypoglycemia

Other carbohydrates must be given to prevent relapse.

Maximal Clinical Effect Duration

The maximal effect of glucose lasts about 50 minutes.