Glucagon

Question 1

Presentation

Answer 1

1 mg (IU) in 1 mL hypokit

Question 2

Pharmacology

Answer 2

A hormone normally secreted by the pancreas
Actions:
– Causes an increase in blood glucose concentration by converting stored liver
glycogen to glucose

Question 3

Metabolism

Answer 3

Mainly by the liver, also by the kidneys and in the plasma

Question 4

Primary emergency indications

Answer 4

1. Diabetic hyperglycaemia (BGL <4 mol/L) in patients with an altered conscious state who are unable to self administer oral glucose

Question 5

Contraindications

Answer 5

Nil

Question 6

Precautions

Answer 6

Nil

Question 7

ROA

Answer 7

IM

Question 8

Side effects

Answer 8

Nausea and vomiting (rare)

Question 9

Special notes

Answer 9

Not all patients will respond well to glucagon. e.g those with inadequate glycogen stores in the liver (alcoholics, malnourished)

IM effects:
Onset: 5 minutes
Peak: n/a
Duration: 25 minutes

Question 10

Dose

Answer 10

Presentation:
Dose: 1 IU IM single dose only.
Paed: <25kg 0.5 IU IM glucagon (0.5ml)
>25 1 IU IM glucagon (1ml)