Glucose gel

Question 1

Glucose Gel
Type

Answer 1

Oral glucose gel

Question 2

Glucose Gel
Presentation

Answer 2

37.5g tube containing 15g glucose

Question 3

Glucose Gel
Actions

Answer 3

1. glucose is the main energy source for the body’s cells, especially the brain
2. glucose preparations is rapidly absorbed from oral/buccal mucosa
3. causes an increase in blood glucose concentration
   Onset: approx 10mins

Question 4

Glucose Gel
Use

Answer 4

Treat hypoglycaemia - with altered conscious state with BGL <4mMol/l, and where patient is conscious and able to swallow.

Question 5

Glucose Gel
Contraindications

Answer 5

Impaired or absent swallow/gag reflex

Question 6

Glucose Gel
Dose

Answer 6

Adult and Paed:
1xtube of 15g glucose orally.
may be repeated once after 15mins if BGL still <4mMol/l, and level of consciousness still altered.
Total maximum dose 30g glucose
Not to be given IV or IM.

Notes:
Patients should swallow the entire contents of the tube (where possible) to maximise the rise in BGL
Patients who respond to oral glucose gel should eat to prevent later development of further hypoglycaemia
recheck BGL following treatment
Gel liquefies when over 30 degrees - still useable but re-cool if possible.