Class
Description
Onset and Duration
Indications
Contraindications
Adverse Reactions
Drug Interactions
How Supplied
Dosage and Administration
Special Considerations
Pancreatic hormone, insulin antagonist
Glucagon is a protein secreted by the alpha cells of the pancreas. When released, it elevates blood glucose levels by increasing the breakdown of glycogen to glucose and inhibiting glycogen synthesis. In addition, glucagon exerts positive inotropic action on the heart and decreases renal vascular resistance. The drug is only effective in treating hypoglycemia if liver glycogen is available. Therefore it may be ineffective in chronic hypoglycemia, starvation, and adrenal insufficiency.
Altered level of consciousness where hypoglycemia is suspected.
May be used as an inotropic agent in beta-blocker overdose.
Hypersensitivity (allergy to proteins)
Tachycardia
Hypertension
Nausea and vomiting
There are no significant drug interactions with other emergency medications.
Glucagon must be reconstituted (with provided diluent) before administration. Dilute 1 unit (1 mg) white powder in 1 ml of diluting solution (1 mg/ml).
Pregnancv safety: Category B.
Should not be considered a first-line choice for hypoglycemia.
lntravenous glucose must be administered if the patient does not respond to a second dose of glucagon.