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Glucagon
Class
Hyperglycemic agent, pancreatic hormone, insulin antagonist.
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Glucagon
Mechanism of action
Increases blood glucose level by stimulating glycogenesis (formation of glucagon). Unknown mechanism of stabilizing cardiac rhythm in beta-blocker overdose. Minimal positive inotropic and chronotropic response. Decrease gastrointestinal motility and secretions.
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Glucagon
Indications
Altered level of consciousnesss when hypoglycemia is suspected. May be used as inotropic (affecting the contractility of cardiac muscle tissue) agent in beta-blocker overdose.
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Glucagon
Contraindications
Hyperglycemia, hypersensitivity.
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Glucagon
Adverse reactions
Nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, hypertension.
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Glucagon
Drug interactions
Incompatible in solution with most other substances. No significant drug interactions with other emergency medications
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Glucagon
How supplied
1mg ampules (requires reconstitution with dilutent provided)
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Glucagon
Dosage and administration
- Adult: hypoglycemia: 0.5-1mg IM; may repeat in 7-10 min.
- Calcium channel blocker or beta-blocker overdose: 3mg initially, followed by infusion at 3mg/hr as necessary.
- Pediatric: Hypoglycemia: 0.5-1mg IM (for children <20kg).
- Calcium channel blocker or beta blocker overdose: not recommended.
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Glucagon
Duration of action
- Onset: 1 minute
- Peak effect: 30 minutes
- Duration: variable (generally 9-17 minutes)
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Glucagon
Special considerations
Pregnancy safety: Category C. Ineffective if glycogen stores depleted. Should always be used in conjuction with 50% dextrose whenever possible. If Pt. does not respond to second dose glucagon, 50% dextrose must be administered.
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