Glucagon

Question 1

What is the Pathophysiology of Glucagon

Answer 1

A hormone Normally secreted by the pancreas

Action
- Causes an increase in Blood Glucose concentration by converting stored liver glycogen to glucose.

Question 2

What is the Presentation of Glucagon and how is it Metabolized

Answer 2

Presentation
- 1mg in 1ml hypo-kit.

Metabolized
- Metabolized by the kidneys and in the plasma

Question 3

What are the Indications and Contraindications for Glucagon

Answer 3

Indication
- Diabetic hypoglycemia with a (BGL <4) in patients who are altered conscious state or unable to self administered glucose paste.

• Anaphylaxis (Adult) where patients remain hypotensive following adrenaline therapy with a past history of heart failure or patients on Beta Blockers.

Contraindications
- Nil of Significance.

Question 4

What are the Side Effects and Precautions of Glucagon

Answer 4

Side Effects
- Nausea and Vomiting

Precaution
- Nil of Significance.

Question 5

Route of Administration and Special Notes.

Answer 5

Route of Administration
- IM

Special Notes
- Not all patients will respond well to Glucagon, e.g patients with low stores of glycogen in there liver (Malnourished/ Alcoholics)

Onset: 5 Minutes
Peak: N/A
Duration: 25 minutes