When treating hypoglycemia in patients taking Alpha Glucoside Inhibitors, what should be used?

Prepare for the Houston Methodist Pharmacology Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready to ace your test!

When treating hypoglycemia in patients taking Alpha Glucosidase Inhibitors, the most effective treatment is glucose. Alpha Glucosidase Inhibitors work by delaying the absorption of carbohydrates in the intestines, which slows down the increase in blood glucose levels after meals. In situations where a patient experiences hypoglycemia, it’s important to use a source of glucose because it acts quickly to raise blood sugar levels directly.

Using glucose is preferred over other forms of carbohydrates because they need to be broken down into glucose before they can be used by the body. While complex carbohydrates might provide a slower, sustained release of glucose, they would not address the immediate need to quickly raise blood glucose levels in an emergency situation. Protein-rich snacks can help maintain overall blood sugar levels but are not fast-acting solutions for hypoglycemia. Insulin injections are not appropriate for treating hypoglycemia, as they would further lower blood glucose levels.

Consequently, glucose is the recommended treatment for promptly correcting hypoglycemia in these patients.

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