Low blood sugar: recognise it early and act safely

Use the 15–15 approach when it is safe

For most conscious adults who can swallow, use 15 g of fast-acting glucose, recheck after 15 minutes and repeat if the reading remains below 70 mg/dL. Glucose tablets or gel are easier to measure. Foods high in fat or protein act more slowly and are not the best first treatment.

Know when oral treatment is unsafe

Do not put food, drink or glucose gel into the mouth of a person who is unconscious, having a seizure or unable to swallow safely. Use prescribed glucagon if a trained person is present, place the person on their side and seek emergency help.

Prevent the next episode

Write down the time, reading, meal, activity and medicine or insulin involved. Repeated lows, night-time episodes or reduced warning symptoms should prompt an early review of doses, meal timing and whether a glucagon plan or glucose sensor is appropriate.

Frequently asked questions