Glucagon

Question 1

Pharmacology and presentation of Glucagon?

Answer 1

1mg/1ml powder.

Pancreatic hormone which increases blood glucose by stimulating glycogenolysis predominantly within the liver. High dose glucagon has inotropic and chronotropic effects that are not mediated through beta-receptors.

Question 2

Indicators of Glucagon?

Answer 2

• Symptomatic Hypoglycaemia
• Refractory anaphylaxis.

Question 3

Contraindications of Glucagon?

Answer 3

• Known allergy

Question 4

Cautions of Glucagon?

Answer 4

• NIL

Question 5

Side Effects of Glucagon?

Answer 5

• Nausea and/or vomiting

Question 6

Dosing Regimes of Glucagon?

Answer 6

Hypoglycaemia (<4mmOL)
- Adult = 1mg IM once
- Paed <25kg = 0.5mg IM or >25kg = 1mg IM, once to a max dose of 1mg

Refractory Anaphylaxis
- Adult = 1mg IM once or 1mg IV once
- Paed <25kg = 0.5mg IM or >25kg = 1mg IM, once to a max dose of 1mg

Question 7

Onset and duration of Glucagon?

Answer 7

• Onset = 5 minutes
• Duration = 30 minutes