What are contraindications for oral glucose administration?

Oral glucose administration is intended for patients who are conscious and able to swallow, typically to treat hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. One of the critical contraindications for administering oral glucose is the unresponsiveness or inability of a patient to swallow, which poses a significant risk for choking. If a patient is unconscious or unable to swallow, introducing glucose orally could lead to aspiration or an airway obstruction, which is a serious concern in emergency medicine.

A conscious and alert patient is an appropriate candidate for oral glucose, as they can safely swallow the medication and are likely able to report any changes in their condition. Hyperglycemia does not serve as a direct contraindication since glucose should not be given to patients who already have excessively high blood sugar levels, but this is a consideration in clinical judgment rather than an absolute contraindication for administration in all cases. Lastly, a mild allergic reaction may raise concern but does not automatically mean that oral glucose cannot be administered; instead, the severity of the reaction and patient's overall condition must be assessed. Overall, the inability to swallow, particularly when unconscious, is the paramount reason for contraindication.