Glucagon

Question 1

Glucagon
Type

Answer 1

Pancreatic hormone

Question 2

Glucagon
Presentation

Answer 2

vial containing 1 International unit of glucagon as a dry powder, with a syringe containing 1ml of diluting solution.

Question 3

Glucagon
Actions

Answer 3

Causes the liver to metabolise stores of glycogen to glucose, resulting in a rise in the blood glucose level.
Only effective if liver glycogen is available.
Onset IM: 5-20mins

Question 4

Glucagon
Uses

Answer 4

Treatment of hypoglycaemia (BGL <4mMol/l) when oral or IV glucose cannot be administered.

Question 5

Glucagon
Adverse effects

Answer 5

Very rare
1. Nausea and vomiting
2. very occasionally, hypersensitivity

Question 6

Glucagon
Contraindications

Answer 6

Known hypersensitivity

Question 7

Glucagon
Dose

Answer 7

Adult: 1IU - IM single dose only

Paed: weight <20kg (approx 5yrs): 0.5 IU - IM single dose only.
weight >20kg: 1IU - IM single dose only

NoteL patients who respond to glucagon should eat, to prevent later development of further hypoglycaemia.
Recheck BGL following treatment.