Glucagon

Question 1

Glucagon

Class

Answer 1

• Hyperglycemic agent
• Pancreatic hormone

Question 2

Glucagon

Mechanism of action

Answer 2

• Increases BGL by increasing glycogenolysis
• Unknown mechanism for stabilizing cardiac rhythm in beta-blocker OD
• Minimal positive inotropic and chronotropic response
• Decreases GI motility and secretions

Question 3

Glucagon

Indication

Answer 3

• Altered LOC when hypoglycemia is suspected
• May be used as inotropic agent in beta-blocker OD

Question 4

Glucagon

Contraindications

Answer 4

• Hyperglycemia
• Hypersensitivity

Question 5

Glucagon

Adverse reactions

Answer 5

• N/V
• Tachycardia
• HTN

Question 6

Glucagon

Drug interactions

Answer 6

• Incompatible in solution with most other meds
• No significant interaction with other emergency meds

Question 7

Glucagon

Dosage and administration

Answer 7

• Adult and Ped hypoglycemia:
  
  • 0.5-1.0 mg IM
  • may repeat in 7-10 min
• Adult:
  
  • Calcium channel blocker or beta-blocker OD
    
    • 3 mg initially, then 3 mg/hr infusion

Question 8

Glucagon

Duration of action

Answer 8

• Onset: 1 minute
• **Peak: ** Within 30 min
• Duration: Varies (generally 9-17 min)

Question 9

Glucagon

Special considerations

Answer 9

• Pregnancy: Cat C
• Ineffective if glycogen stores are depleted
• Should always be administered in conjunction with D50 if possible
• If pt doesn’t respond to 2nd dose of glucagon, D50 must me used