DRUGS: Glucagon (Gluca-Gen)

Question 1

Glucagon (Gluca-Gen): Class

Answer 1

Hyperglycemic agent, pancreatic hormone, insulin antagonist

Question 2

Glucagon (Gluca-Gen): Mechanism of Action

Answer 2

Increased blood glucose level by stimulating glycogenolysis. Unknown mechanism of stabilizing cardiac rhythm in beta-blocker overdose. Minimal positive inotropic and chronotropic response. Decrease GI motility and secretions.

Question 3

Glucagon (Gluca-Gen):Indications

Answer 3

Altered level of consciousness when hypoglycemia is suspected. May be used as a reversal agent in beta-blocker overdose.

Question 4

Glucagon (Gluca-Gen): Contraindications

Answer 4

Hyperglycemia
Hypersensitivity

Question 5

Glucagon (Gluca-Gen): Adverse Reactions/Side Effects

Answer 5

Dizziness
Headaches
Hypertension
Tachycardia
Nausea/Vomiting
Rebound Hypoglycemia

Question 6

Glucagon (Gluca-Gen): Route

Answer 6

IM, IN

Question 7

Glucagon (Gluca-Gen): Dosage & Administration - ADULT

Answer 7

Adult
Hypoglycemia: 1mg IM/IN; may repeat in 7-10 minutes

Question 8

Glucagon (Gluca-Gen): Dosage & Administration - PEDIATRIC

Answer 8

Pediatric
Hypoglycemia:
1mg IM/IN if 20kg or greater (or 5 years or more);

0.5mg IM/IN if less than 20Kg or younger than 5 years.

Question 9

Glucagon (Gluca-Gen): Duration of Action

Answer 9

Onset: 1 Minute
Peak Effect: 5-20 Minutes
Duration: 60-90 Minutes

Question 10

Glucagon (Gluca-Gen): Special Considerations

Answer 10

Pregnancy safety: Use in pregnancy only if cleared indicated. Not recommended for use in lactating women. Ineffective if glycogen store depleted. Should always be used in conjunction with D50 whenever possible. If patient does not respond to a second dose of glucagon , D50 must be administered. Requires reconstitution with the supplied solution.