A hypoglycaemic episode (a “hypo”) can happen quickly and feel frightening. Having the right fast-acting glucose treatment on hand — and knowing how to use it — is a critical part of diabetes safety.

What Is Hypoglycaemia?

Hypoglycaemia occurs when blood glucose drops below 4.0 mmol/L. Symptoms develop quickly: shakiness, sweating, palpitations, pallor, confusion, slurred speech. If untreated, severe hypoglycaemia can cause seizures or loss of consciousness. Anyone on insulin or certain diabetes medications (sulphonylureas) is at risk.

The 15-15 Rule

The standard first-line treatment for a mild to moderate hypo is: take 15g of fast-acting glucose, wait 15 minutes, retest. If still below 4.0 mmol/L, repeat. Once recovered (above 4.0 mmol/L), have a longer-acting carbohydrate (a biscuit, a small sandwich) to prevent a repeat episode.

What Are GlucoTabs?

GlucoTabs are chewable glucose tablets providing 4g of pure glucose each. To achieve a 15g dose, take 3–4 tablets. They are: precisely dosed (unlike a glass of juice or sweets), portable (fit in a pocket or bag), stable (long shelf life), palatable (available in raspberry, orange and cola), and purpose-designed for the treatment of hypoglycaemia.

Why GlucoTabs Rather Than Sweets or Juice?

Many people use fizzy drinks, fruit juice or sweets to treat hypos. The problem: unpredictable glucose content, risk of overtreating (leading to high glucose), less portable. GlucoTabs provide a known, consistent dose every time.

When to Seek Urgent Help

If the person is unconscious, fitting, or cannot swallow safely — do NOT give anything by mouth. Call 999 immediately. If a glucagon injection kit is available and you are trained in its use, administer it while waiting for the ambulance.

Shop GlucoTabs at Chemist 2 Customer. Related: Complete Diabetes Guide, Diet and Blood Sugar.