Glucagon

Question 1

Class (2)

Answer 1

• Pancreatic hormone

- Insulin antagonist

Question 2

Action (2)

Answer 2

• Converts liver glycogen to glucose to raise blood sugar level, and inhibits glycogen synthesis
• Stimulates glucagon receptors in cardiac cells (in larger doses) and may be of benefit in beta blocker ODs by increasing the force of contraction (+ inotropic) and rate of contraction (+ chronotropic)

Question 3

Indications (3)

Answer 3

• Hypoglycemia if no IV route available
• Beta blocker OD with profound bradycardia
• May be effective in some calcium channel blocker ODs

Question 4

Dosage/Route

Answer 4

-Adult hypoglycemia/insulin recation: 2 mg IM

Question 5

Standard Prep

Answer 5

1 mg powder + 1 cc diluent

Question 6

Pediatric dose

Answer 6

• 1 mg IM

- 0.5 mg IM if less than 1 year of age

Question 7

Contraindications

Answer 7

Hypersensitivity

Question 8

Side effects

Answer 8

Nausea & vomiting

Question 9

Precaution

Answer 9

• Should not be used as a first line drug for hypoglycemia

- Will be ineffective in conditions where glycogen stores are depleted, ie chronic hypoglycemia, starvation