Glucagon

Question 1

Glucagon Class

Answer 1

Pancreatic Hormone (α2 cells in pancreas)

Question 2

Glucagon Action

Answer 2

• Increases blood glucose by stimulating glycogenolysis
• Inhibits conversion of glucose to glycogen
• Stimulates gluconeogenesis (metabolism of glucose in the liver)
• Relaxes smooth muscle of the GI tract
• Positive inotrope and chronotrope

Question 3

Glucagon Indications

Answer 3

• Hypoglycemia

* BB or CCB Toxicity

Question 4

Glucagon Contraindications

Answer 4

• Known hypersensitivity
• Known Insulinoma
• Known Pheochromocytoma

Question 5

Glucagon Precautions

Answer 5

• Cardiac Disease / CAD
• Geriatrics
• Malnutrition
• Alcoholism
• Hepatic disease
• Renal Insufficiency
• Pregnancy (B)

Question 6

Glucagon Dosage

Answer 6

Adults:
• Hypoglcemia: 1 mg IM. If ineffective may repeat in 5-20 min.
• BB or CCB OD (ordered by medical control) 1-2 mg IV/IM, repeated q 5 minutes PRN. Dilute with NS.
Pediatrics:
• Hypoglcemia: 0.1 mg/kg IV/IM/SQ up to 1 mg
• BB or CCB OD (as ordered by medical control)
0.1 mg IV/IM/IO, up to 1 mg repeated q 5 minutes PRN. Dilute with NS

Question 7

Glucagon Onset/ Duration

Answer 7

• Onset: IV–5-20 min, IM—30 min, SubQ—30-45

* Duration: 1-2 hours

Question 8

Glucagon Side Effects

Answer 8

• N/V
• Angina (rare)
• Urticaria (rare)
• Dizziness (rare)

Question 9

Glucagon Interactions

Answer 9

Beta blockers may interfere with glucagon’s actions