Hypoglycaemia Severity Classification (ADA)

Current Plasma Glucose (mg/dL)

If the patient is unable to treat themselves due to altered consciousness or physical weakness.

Rule of 15

Treat with 15g of fast-acting glucose (e.g., 4oz juice, 4 glucose tabs). Re-check in 15 minutes. Repeat if glucose < 70 mg/dL.

Guidelines & Evidence

Verified

Last Review: 2026

When to Use

All diabetic patients on insulin or secretagogues (sulfonylureas/glinides).

To standardize reporting in clinical trials and clinical practice.

Evaluating the efficacy and safety of current glucose-lowering therapy.

How it Works

ADA Clinical Levels

Level	Glucose Threshold	Description
Level 1	≤ 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L)	Glucose alert value; requires titration of therapy or carbohydrate intake.
Level 2	< 54 mg/dL (3.0 mmol/L)	Clinically significant; threshold for neuroglycopenia and serious morbidity.
Level 3	N/A (Variable)	Severe; characterized by altered mental/physical status requiring 3rd party help.

Last Comprehensive Review: 2026

Recent Journal Updates

British J Clinical PharmacologyJul 22, 2026

Comment on ‘Linezolid‐induced lactic acidosis in critically ill patients: A multicentre study of incidence, severity and predictors’

Clinical Context

We think this might be relevant to the clinical guidance for Hypoglycaemia Severity Classification (ADA).

JAMAJul 21, 2026

FDA Approves First Over-the-Counter Continuous Glucose Monitor for Children

Clinical Context

We think this has broad domain relevance to Hypoglycaemia Severity Classification (ADA).

PLOS MedicineJul 13, 2026

Self-explaining artificial intelligence for the classification of B cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma: A diagnostic decision support study

Clinical Context

We think this might be relevant to the clinical guidance for Hypoglycaemia Severity Classification (ADA).

Hypoglycaemia Severity Classification (ADA)

When to Use

When to Use

How it Works

ADA Clinical Levels

Clinical Pearls

Hypoglycaemia Unawareness

The 15/15 Rule

The Evidence

Primary Source

6. Glycemic Targets: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2024

Recent Journal Updates

Hypoglycaemia Severity Classification (ADA)

When to Use

When to Use

How it Works

ADA Clinical Levels

Clinical Pearls

Hypoglycaemia Unawareness

The 15/15 Rule

The Evidence

Primary Source

6. Glycemic Targets: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2024

Recent Journal Updates