What is an immediate action for treating hypoglycemia?

In treating hypoglycemia, administering glucagon is a critical immediate action because glucagon is a hormone that triggers the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream. This is particularly important in cases where the person is unable to consume food or drink due to confusion, unconsciousness, or inability to swallow. Glucagon effectively raises blood sugar levels quickly, countering the dangerous effects of hypoglycemia.

While providing a sugary drink may also be an effective treatment for mild hypoglycemia in conscious individuals who can safely swallow, it is not suitable in all scenarios, such as when the person is unconscious. Moreover, giving insulin would further lower blood sugar levels, exacerbating the problem. Administering plain water does nothing to address the hypoglycemia and could potentially worsen the situation by filling the stomach without raising glucose levels. This makes glucagon the most appropriate and immediate option in several emergency situations involving hypoglycemia.