Glucagon
Class
Pancreatic hormone, insulin antagonist
Description
Glucagon is a hormone 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. Glucagon also causes relaxation of smooth
muscle of the stomach, duodenum, small bowel, and colon.
Onset & Duration
Onset: Within 1 min.
Duration: 3-6 min.
Indications
1. Intramuscular injection with hypoglycemia and without IV access
2. Altered level of consciousness where hypoglycemia is suspected.
3. May be used as an inotropic agent in patients with beta blockade.
Contraindications
1. Hypersensitivity
2. Patients with pheochromocytoma
Adverse Reactions
1. Tachycardia
2. Hypertension
3. Nausea and vomiting
Drug Interactions
There are no significant drug interactions with other emergency medications.
Special Considerations
1. Pregnancy safety: Category B
2. Should not be considered a first-line choice for hypoglycemia
3. Intravenous glucose must be administered if the patient does not respond to a
second dose of glucagon.
Note: Feel free to discuss this medication and your experiences in administering it in an emergency or hospital based setting on our message board
