Blood sugar level of 7.1 mmol/L: Is medication needed?

A blood glucose level of 71 mmol/L is an extremely critical condition that requires immediate medical attention and treatment, rather than simply considering whether to take medication.

Normal fasting blood glucose levels in the human body typically range from 3.9 to 6.1 mmol/L, while postprandial 2-hour blood glucose levels are generally below 7.8 mmol/L. When blood glucose reaches as high as 71 mmol/L, it far exceeds the safety threshold and may lead to acute complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state, accompanied by dehydration, electrolyte disturbances, impaired consciousness, or even coma. Without timely treatment, this condition can be life-threatening.

Emergency interventions such as intravenous fluid replacement, insulin administration, and correction of electrolyte imbalances are necessary rather than oral hypoglycemic agents. At such high glucose levels, oral medications act slowly and may increase the burden on the liver and kidneys. Intravenous insulin infusion is the key to rapidly lowering blood glucose. During treatment, close monitoring of blood glucose, ketone bodies, blood gas analysis, and other parameters is required to adjust the treatment plan accordingly.

It should be emphasized that such a drastic elevation in blood glucose is not accidental and is often associated with poor management of diabetes, infections, stress, or擅自停药 (discontinuation of medication without medical advice). After stabilization of the condition, patients should undergo further tests such as pancreatic function assessment and glycated hemoglobin measurement to develop a long-term glucose control plan, strictly adhering to dietary control, regular exercise, and blood glucose monitoring.