Glucagon

Question 1

Class / Duration

Answer 1

Hyperglycemia Agent / Increases BGL by converting liver glycogen into glucose
Hormone / Relaxes smooth muscle of stomach, duodenum, small bowel, and colon

Question 2

Onset / Duration of Action

Answer 2

Onset: IV: 1min IM: 10min / Duration: IV: 25min IM: 30min

Question 3

Indications

Answer 3

1. BGL <80 when unable to establish IV access
2. Beta-blocker or calcium channel blocker overdose
3. Anaphylaxis Refractory to epi in the patient on beta-blockers

Question 4

Contraindications

Answer 4

Known Hypersensitivity

Question 5

Precautions

Answer 5

1. Liver, renal, or cardiovascular disease

2. Starvation

Question 6

Dosages / Administration

Answer 6

1. ADULT:
   a. Hypoglycemia: 1mg IM
   b. Beat-blocker OD: 3-10mg SLOW IV Push over 3-5min
   c. Anaphylaxis in Pt on Beta-blockers who is Unresponsive to epi: 1-3mg IV
2. PEDS:
   a. Hypoglycemia (AND IV Not Available): CHILD <19kg 0.5mg IM; CHILD >20kg 1mg IM
   b. Beta-blocker OD: CONTACT Mary Bridge Base Station for direction
   c. Anaphylaxis pt on Beta-blockers and Unresponsive to epi: CONTACT Mary Bridge Base Station for direction
3. NOTE: BGL Levels Fall to Normal OR Hypoglycemic Level if pt Does Not relieve IV Dextrose or Food PO after Glucagon administration.

Question 7

Adverse Reactions

Answer 7

Nausea, Vomiting, Allergic reactions, HA, HTN, Dizziness