Glucagon (Glucagon Emergency Kit) Flashcards
Glucagon Classification
Hormone
Glucagon Mechanism
Liver - Glucagon causes activation of glucagon G-proten 2nd messenger cAMP, which leads to a cascade of reactions that allow glucose to be released from glycogen polymers.
Heart - increased cAMP results in calcium entry from ECF and release from sarcoplasmic reticulum -> + chronotropy, inotropy, dromotropy
Lower esophageal sphincter - increased cAMP causes SMC relaxation
Glucagon Pharmacokinetics
Onset: 5-20m
Peak: 30m
Duration: 1-2h
Half Life: 5-10m
Glucagon Indications
- Hypoglycemia, inability to gain IV access
- Esophageal food bolus impaction
- Beta-blocker/Ca2+ channel blocker OD/toxicity
Glucagon Contraindications
- Pheochromocytoma
- Hypersensitivity
Glucagon Side Effect/Adverse Reactions
HA, dizziness, N/V, hypotension
Glucagon Dose
Adult:
Hypoglycemia/Food Bolus: 1mg IM
Ca2+ channel/Beta-blocker OD: 0.1mg/kg IV up to 5mg, repeat in 5m PRN
Pedi:
Hypoglycemia: 0.02mg/kg IM (max dose = 1mg)
Glucagon Precautions
Only effective in hypoglycemia if sufficient glycogen stores in liver
Glucagon Drug Interactions
None EMS