Severe Hypoglycemia: Reducing Risk and Avoiding Catastrophe | Recording-Severe Hypoglycemia: Reducing Risk and Avoiding Catastrophe

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The webinar "Severe Hypoglycemia: Reducing Risk and Avoiding Catastrophe" provided healthcare professionals a comprehensive overview of hypoglycemia management, focusing on high-risk patients, such as those on insulin therapy and older adults. Dr. Scott Pilla highlighted that patients often underreport hypoglycemia, stressing the need for proactive screening, accurate documentation using ICD codes, and the role of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) in identifying patterns and severity. He debunked myths that only severe events matter and glucagon is only for type 1 diabetes, emphasizing glucagon’s role for all insulin users or those at high risk, including some on sulfonylureas.<br /><br />Dr. Mida Munshi discussed "realignment" in older adults—adjusting glycemic targets, simplifying regimens, and deintensifying medications to reduce hypoglycemia risk. She underscored the limitations of A1C and fingersticks, advocating CGM use for safer, tailored diabetes management.<br /><br />Dr. Diana Isaacs reviewed hypoglycemia treatment, endorsing the “rule of 15” for fast-acting carbs and the importance of ready-to-use glucagon formulations, which are easier to administer than older injectable kits but remain underprescribed. She illustrated challenges in managing hypoglycemia even with advanced insulin delivery systems, stressing ongoing regimen adjustment and education for patients and caregivers.<br /><br />Overall, the session reinforced that hypoglycemia prevention requires regular assessment, individualized treatment, patient education, ready emergency treatments like glucagon, and comprehensive care coordination across the patient’s lifespan.

Keywords

Severe Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia Management

High-Risk Patients

Insulin Therapy

Continuous Glucose Monitors

Glucagon Use

Older Adults Diabetes Care

Hypoglycemia Treatment

Diabetes Education