Which statement best describes the mechanism of action (MOA) of oral glucose?

Which statement best describes the mechanism of action (MOA) of oral glucose?

• A. Decreases glucose level in the body
• B. Increased glucose level in the body
• C. Slows gastric emptying
• D. Increases insulin production

Answer: (B)

Oral glucose works by supplying a readily absorbable source of sugar that enters the bloodstream from the gut, rapidly raising blood glucose. In a conscious patient who can swallow and is hypoglycemic, this quick rise in serum glucose is the key therapeutic action. It does not lower glucose, it does not slow gastric emptying, and it does not directly stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin—the main effect is increasing the glucose level in the body through absorption in the gastrointestinal tract.

Oral glucose works by supplying a readily absorbable source of sugar that enters the bloodstream from the gut, rapidly raising blood glucose. In a conscious patient who can swallow and is hypoglycemic, this quick rise in serum glucose is the key therapeutic action. It does not lower glucose, it does not slow gastric emptying, and it does not directly stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin—the main effect is increasing the glucose level in the body through absorption in the gastrointestinal tract.