Glucagon Flashcards
Glucagon Class
- Anti-hypoglycemic agent
- antidote
- hormone secreted by the alpha cells of the pancreas
- GI agent (C)
Glucagon Indications
- hypoglycemia when oral glucose or IV dextrose cannot be administered
- beta-blocker overdose
- calcium channel blocker overdose
- GI obstruction (in-hospital treatment only)
Glucagon Mechanism
breaks down stored glycogen into glucose to increase blood glucose levels; positive inotropic and chronotropic properties; relaxes smooth muscles of the GI tract; decreases renal vascular resistance
Glucagon Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Tachycardia
- Hypertension
- Hypotension
- Anaphylaxis
- Angina
- Dizziness
- urticaria
Glucagon Contraindications
hypersensitivity, pheochromocytoma, adrenal insufficiency, insulinoma
Glucagon Precautions
effective only when there are sufficient stores of glycogen in the liver, and so may be ineffective in patients with chronic
hypoglycemia, renal insufficiency, or who are malnourished; may increase the risk of AMI in patients with coronary artery disease or heart disease
Glucagon Interactions
enhances the effects of anticoagulants such as warfarin (Coumadin); phenytoin (Dilantin) inhibits glucagon-induced insulin release; forms a precipitate if mixed with chloride solutions
Glucagon Routs of Administration
enhances the effects of anticoagulants such as warfarin (Coumadin); phenytoin (Dilantin) inhibits glucagon-induced insulin release; forms a precipitate if mixed with chloride solutions
Glucagon Onset
1–30 minutes
Glucagon Duration
10–20 minutes
Glucagon Adult Dose hypoglycemia
0.5–1 mg IM, repeat in 10 min PRN
Glucagon Adult Dose beta-blocker/calcium channel blocker overdose
3 mg IV initial dose, followed by infusion at 3 mg/hr PRN
Glucagon Pedi Dose hypoglycemia
0.5–1 mg IM
Glucagon Pedi Dose beta-blocker/calcium channel blocker overdose
not recommended
