Glucagon

Question 1

Glucagon

Class

Answer 1

Hyperglycemic agent, pancreatic hormone, insulin antagonist

Question 2

Glucagon

Mechanism of Action

Answer 2

Increases blood glucose levels by stimulating glycogenesis.

Unknown mechanism of stabilizing cardiac rhythm in beta-blocker overdose.

Minimal positive inotropic and chronotropic response.

Decreases gastric motility.

Question 3

Glucagon

Indications

Answer 3

AMS when hypoglycemia is suspected.

May be used as an inotropic agent in beta-blocker overdose.

Question 4

Glucagon

Contraindications

Answer 4

Hyperglycemia, hypersensitivity

Question 5

Glucagon

Adverse Reactions

Answer 5

Nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, and hypertension.

Question 6

Glucagon

Drug Interactions

Answer 6

Incompatible in solution with most other substances.

No significant interactions with other emergency medications.

Question 7

Glucagon

Adult Dosage: Hypoglycemia

Answer 7

0.5 – 1 mg, may be repeated in 7 – 10 minutes

Question 8

Glucagon

Adult Dosage: Calcium Channel Blocker or Beta Blocker

Answer 8

3 mg initially, followed by the 3 mg/hr infusion as necessary.

Question 9

Glucagon

Pediatric Dosage: Hypoglycemia

Answer 9

0.5 – 1 mg

Question 10

Glucagon

Pediatric Dosage: Calcium Channel Blocker or Beta Blocker

Answer 10

Not Recommended

Question 11

Glucagon

Onset

Answer 11

1 Minute

Question 12

Glucagon

Peak Effect

Answer 12

30 Minutes

Question 13

Glucagon

Duration

Answer 13

Variable

Question 14

Glucagon

Special Considerations

Answer 14

Ineffective if glycogen stores are depleted.

Should be used in conjunction with D50 whenever possible.

If patient does not respond to second dose D50 must be administered.