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Warning-sign checks

Drug-induced low blood sugar: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services if someone with possible low blood sugar:

    • Is unconscious, having a seizure, or unable to swallow
    • Has severe confusion or cannot treat themselves safely
    • Does not improve promptly after glucagon or repeated treatment
    • May have taken an overdose or another person's medicine
    • Has been injured during the episode

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek urgent medical advice after an episode caused by a sulfonylurea, long-acting insulin, or suspected medication error, even if glucose initially improves.

    Hypoglycaemia may return.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange follow-up if episodes are becoming more frequent, happen during sleep, have no clear cause, or occur without warning symptoms.

    A medication review is also needed after changes in appetite, weight, kidney function, activity, or alcohol use.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • is having side effects from a medicine, or is struggling to take it as prescribed

The article also says

Place an unconscious person on their side if it is safe.

Do not put food, drink, or objects in their mouth.

Give glucagon if available and you have been shown how to use it.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Drug-induced low blood sugar. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.