by Carrie Belt

Created on: June 09, 2009

Glucose tablets are high-glucose oral tablets that a diabetic will consume when he or she needs to quickly increase his or her blood glucose level. If a diabetic has dangerously low blood glucose, then the diabetic may faint, have seizures, feel dizzy or irritable, or suffer other unwanted consequences of low blood glucose (also called blood sugar).

How to use blood glucose tablets

Blood glucose tablets look like small round pieces of candy that are chewable and help to combat hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels). They come in large bottles that can be easily stored in an office drawer, cupboard, or glove compartment for easy access.

Many diabetics carry glucose tablets with them or have them available in their homes, offices, and cars. In order to feel the effects of a blood glucose tablet, a diabetic simply needs to bite into the tablet and let the contents of the tablet be absorbed by the mouth and body. Within moments, he or she should start to see the positive effects of the tablets.

Glucose tablets generally contain no fat, caffeine, or sodium. In essence, they are compact sugar tablets with flavor.

It is common for some diabetics to rely on glucose tablets as a fast way to increase their blood glucose levels, especially during a strenuous workout or between meals. However, consuming too many glucose tablets may cause the diabetic to have a too high level of blood glucose, which could be harmful. Therefore, diabetics should closely monitor their blood glucose levels with a blood glucose meter as they learn how their bodies respond to glucose tablets and everyday activities.

Where to find glucose tablets

Glucose tablets are available in drugs stores and grocery stores. They can also be found online through diabetic supply stores, such as TypeFree. Diabetics can select from a variety of glucose tablet flavors and brands as well.

Diabetics should be sure that they always have glucose tablets on hand if they find that they use them to help regulate their blood glucose levels.

Remember: if you feel the effects of low blood sugar, you should speak with your doctor right away. In some cases, people have low blood sugar levels as a result of trying a new medication. Low blood sugar in such cases may indicate that the medication is not right. In other cases, if you get low blood sugar while working out or performing daily activities, you may need to modify your medication. Speak with your doctor for next steps.

Sources:
www.diabetes.org
www.imtypefree.com

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