GLUCAGON Flashcards
What is Glucagon classified as?
Glycogenolytic Hormones.
What is the presentation of Glucagon?
1 mg vial powder and solution for reconstitution (1 mL).
How is Glucagon administered?
Intramuscular (IM).
What are the indications for administering Glucagon?
Hypoglycaemia in patients unable to take oral glucose or unable to gain IV access, with a blood glucose level < 4 mmol/L.
What are the contraindications for Glucagon?
< 1 month/ Phaechromocytoma/ Known Severe Adverse Reactions.
What is the usual dosage of Glucagon for adults?
1 mg IM.
What is the usual dosage of Glucagon for paediatric patients weighing ≥ 1 month and < 25kg?
500 mcg IM.
What is the usual dosage of Glucagon for paediatric patients weighing ≥ 1 month and ≥ 25kg?
1 mg IM.
What are common side effects of Glucagon?
Nausea.
What are uncommon side effects of Glucagon?
Vomiting.
What are rare side effects of Glucagon?
May cause Hypotension/ Dizziness/ Headache.
What additional information should be noted about Glucagon?
May be ineffective in patients with low stored glycogen e.g. prior use in previous 24 hours, alcohol dependent patients with liver disease. Store in refrigerator. Stable at room temperature for 18 months, use immediately once reconstituted. Protect from light.
Can hypoglycaemic paediatric patients who are not diagnosed as diabetic be administered Glucagon?
No, they should not be administered Glucagon.
This does not preclude the administration of glucose gel or glucose solution to treat hypoglycaemia.
