Glucagon

Question 1

Indications for use?

Answer 1

Hypoglycemia and beta-blocker overdose or calcium channel blocker overdose

Question 2

Contraindications?

Answer 2

Allergy and history of pheochromocytoma

Question 3

Side effects?

Answer 3

Nausea, vomiting, hypotension, respiratory distress

Question 4

Usually dose?

Answer 4

In adult patient who can safely eat or drink, oral glucose is preferred.

Adults over 44ibs: hyperglycemia- 1 mg glucagon IM/intranasal.

Pediatric patients less than 44ibs: 0.5 mg IM/intranasal

Question 5

Monitor, report, document?

Answer 5

Vitals within 5 minutes of administration, change in LOC, blood sugar before and after

Question 6

Special notes?

Answer 6

• Drug is supplied in a powdered form and must be reconstituted in the solution supplied with the powder.
• Patient needs to eat carbohydrates as soon as awake and able to swallow safely.
• in the pediatric patient IM glucagon should be administered prior to attempting peripheral IV and IV dextrose.
• Pregnancy category B.
• May be repeated in 20 minutes if no response. IV glucose must be given if patient doesn’t respond to glucagon.

Question 7

Drug action?

Answer 7

Raises blood glucose by stimulating liver to release stored glycogen and converting fats and proteins to glucose.