Glucose is also known as dextrose is a simple sugar (monosaccharide) that is used to increase the level of blood sugar (glucose) when the level falls too low (hypoglycemia). Glucose in this form increases the level of blood sugar, so it is a glucose-elevating agent. Dextrose/glucose Other glucose-elevating agents are diazoxide (Proglycem) and glucagon.

Glucose is the primary fuel used by most cells in the body to generate the energy that is needed to carry out cellular functions. When glucose levels fall to hypoglycemic levels, cells cannot function normally, and symptoms develop such as nervousness, cool skin, headache, confusion, convulsions, or coma. Ingested glucose is absorbed directly into the blood from the intestine and results in a rapid increase in the blood glucose level.

What brand names are available for glucose?

Insta-Glucose, Dex4, Glucose, Insulin Reaction, BD Glucose, and many others

Do I need a prescription for glucose?

Nausea may occur after ingesting glucose, Dextrose/glucose but this also may be an effect of hypoglycemia which is present just prior to ingestion. Other adverse effects include:

• increased blood glucose,
• injection site leakage of fluid (extravasation),
• injection site inflammation, and
• bleeding in the brain.

The usual dose of glucose for hypoglycemia is 10-20 gm orally or by intravenous infusion. The oral dose may be repeated in 10 minutes if hypoglycemic symptoms do not resolve. Oral glucose must be swallowed to be effective.

: Glucose increases blood glucose levels and reduces the effect of diabetes medications.

Glucose may be used to manage hypoglycemia in nursing mothers.