Glucagon (Glucagon Emergency Kit)

Question 1

Glucagon Classification

Answer 1

Hormone

Question 2

Glucagon Mechanism

Answer 2

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

Question 3

Glucagon Pharmacokinetics

Answer 3

Onset: 5-20m
Peak: 30m
Duration: 1-2h
Half Life: 5-10m

Question 4

Glucagon Indications

Answer 4

• Hypoglycemia, inability to gain IV access
• Esophageal food bolus impaction
• Beta-blocker/Ca2+ channel blocker OD/toxicity

Question 5

Glucagon Contraindications

Answer 5

• Pheochromocytoma

- Hypersensitivity

Question 6

Glucagon Side Effect/Adverse Reactions

Answer 6

HA, dizziness, N/V, hypotension

Question 7

Glucagon Dose

Answer 7

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)

Question 8

Glucagon Precautions

Answer 8

Only effective in hypoglycemia if sufficient glycogen stores in liver

Question 9

Glucagon Drug Interactions

Answer 9

None EMS