Over The Counter Medicine For Low Blood Sugar
Low blood sugar or hypoglycemia occurs when the level of glucose in your blood falls below normal. This condition is common in people with diabetes who take insulin or other medications to manage their blood sugar levels. Low blood sugar can also occur in people who do not have diabetes, but it is less common.
Symptoms of low blood sugar may include confusion, dizziness, shakiness, sweating, weakness, and anxiety. If left untreated, hypoglycemia can lead to seizures, coma, or even death. Therefore, it is important to treat low blood sugar promptly.
Causes of Low Blood Sugar
Low blood sugar can occur for many reasons, including:
- Taking too much insulin or other diabetes medications
- Skipping or delaying meals
- Exercising more than usual
- Drinking alcohol, especially on an empty stomach
- Having a medical condition that affects blood sugar levels
Treating Low Blood Sugar
If you have diabetes and experience symptoms of low blood sugar, you should check your blood sugar level immediately. If your blood sugar level is below 70 mg/dL, you should treat it promptly by consuming carbohydrates, such as:
- Fruit juice or regular soda (not diet)
- Hard candy or jelly beans
- A small piece of fruit or a granola bar
- Glucose tablets or gel
After consuming carbohydrates, you should check your blood sugar level again in 15 minutes. If your blood sugar level is still too low, you should repeat the treatment until your blood sugar level returns to normal.
If you do not have diabetes and experience symptoms of low blood sugar, you should consume carbohydrates and seek medical attention if your symptoms do not improve.
Over The Counter Medications for Low Blood Sugar
There are several over the counter medications that can help manage low blood sugar:
1. Glucose Tablets
Glucose tablets are small, portable tablets that contain glucose. They are fast-acting and can quickly raise blood sugar levels. Glucose tablets are available at most drugstores and can be purchased without a prescription. They are a convenient option for people with diabetes who experience frequent episodes of low blood sugar.
2. Glucose Gel
Glucose gel is a thick, sweet gel that contains glucose. It is similar to glucose tablets in that it is fast-acting and can quickly raise blood sugar levels. Glucose gel is also available at most drugstores and can be purchased without a prescription.
3. Sports Drinks
Sports drinks, such as Gatorade, contain carbohydrates and electrolytes that can help raise blood sugar levels. They are a good option for people who experience low blood sugar during or after exercise. However, sports drinks should be consumed in moderation, as they can be high in sugar and calories.
4. Candy
Candy, such as hard candy or jelly beans, can quickly raise blood sugar levels. However, candy should be consumed in moderation, as it can be high in sugar and calories. It is also important to choose candy that does not contain fat, as fat can slow down the absorption of sugar.
Conclusion
Low blood sugar can be a serious condition that requires prompt treatment. If you have diabetes, it is important to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly and to treat low blood sugar promptly. Over the counter medications, such as glucose tablets and sports drinks, can be useful in managing low blood sugar, but should be consumed in moderation. If you experience frequent episodes of low blood sugar, you should speak to your healthcare provider about adjusting your diabetes medications or other treatments.
