Glucagon

Question 1

Glucagon

Presentation

Answer 1

1mg in 1ml vial, accompanied by diluent for injection.

Question 2

Glucagon

Use

Answer 2

For demonstrated hypoglycaemia where oral glucose cannot be administered and IV access cannot be obtained in a safe and timely manner.
• Altered conscious state in a known diabetic or of otherwise unknown cause where blood glucose level is below 4mmol/L..

Question 3

Glucagon

Type

Answer 3

• A hyperglycaemic agent that converts stored liver glycogen to glucose to increase blood glucose concentration..

Question 4

Glucagon

Dose

Answer 4

Intramuscular injection into deltoid muscle or mid-lateral thigh
Adult:
•	1mg in 1ml IM.
•	Repeat IM Glucagon after 10 minutes if unable to obtain IV access and patient still has inadequate GCS and blood glucose level.
Paediatric:
•	<5 years: 0.5mg in 0.5ml
•	6-12 years: 1.0mg in 1.0ml
•	Single dose only
.

Question 5

Glucagon

Actions

Answer 5

• Onset 4-7 minutes, duration 10-30 minute.

Question 6

Glucagon

Contraindications

Answer 6

• Hypersensitivity.
• Known pheochromocytoma
.

Question 7

Glucagon

Adverse effects

Answer 7

• Nausea/vomiting
• Gastric pain
• Transient rise of blood pressure for patients taking beta blockers.
.

Question 8

Glucagon

Precautions

Answer 8

• Glucagon is effective in treating hypoglycaemia only if sufficient liver glycogen is present (eg: it does not work on alcohol or anorexia induced hypoglycaemia).
• Even if fully recovered, patients should be encouraged to be transported to a medical facility to ensure effective follow up and review
.