Glucose tablets are easily digested sugar tablets that increase blood sugar, or glucose, levels. If you're diabetic or have hypoglycemia, a condition where your blood sugar dips too low, glucose tablets are easily available sources of sugar that will rapidly reverse any drop in blood sugar. However, different tablets have different doses. Talk with your doctor about the tablet that's right for your condition.
Typical Dosage
In general, the American Diabetic Association recommends 15 g of sugar to reverse a dip in blood sugar, sometimes called insulin reaction. Glucose tablets vary in their individual tablet dosage; some require three tablets to get to 15 g of sugar, others require four tablets. If you have glucose tablets, check the instructions on the package to see what the correct number of tablets is to get to the required 15 g, or other number that your doctor may recommend.
Options
If you can't find glucose tablets, other products may work. However, focus on those that are high in sugar, such as jelly beans, soda, juice, lemon drops or mints; or high in carbohydrate, such as pretzels or toast. Products that are also high in fat, such as cookies or cake, work too slowly.
When to Take Tablets
Hypoglycemia can hit suddenly. If you've taken too much insulin, been active or not eaten as much as you had planned when taking your insulin. Symptoms include shakiness, sweating, hunger and headache. Taking the tablets should reverse these symptoms within 15 minutes. If your symptoms don't dissipate, test your blood sugar again. If necessary, take another dose of glucose tablets -- either three or four, depending on the brand.
Considerations
Glucose tablets are easily available over-the-counter at drug stores and many supermarkets. If you prefer, glucose gel is also an option. These tubes provide 15 g of carbohydrate in one dose, making it easier for some people to manage, as you don't have to count tablets. However, glucose gel must be stored at room temperature and kept away from moisture, heat and light, making it more difficult to keep and carry for emergency purposes, such as in a purse or backpack.
