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SYSTEMIC HORMONAL PREPARATIONS, EXCL. SEX HORMONES AND INSULINS › PANCREATIC HORMONES › GLYCOGENOLYTIC HORMONES › Glycogenolytic hormones
glucagon
H04AA01
Forms & Strengths
- Powder for reconstitution: 1 mg vial
- Pre-filled nasal powder: 3 mg
- Auto-injector: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg per 0.2 mL
Adult Dosing
- Severe hypoglycemia: 1 mg subcutaneously, intramuscularly, or intravenously; repeat in 15 minutes if necessary
- Diagnostic aid (gastrointestinal examination): 0.25 to 2 mg IV or IM depending on the procedure
Pediatric Dosing
- Severe hypoglycemia (weight > 20 kg or age > 6 years): 1 mg subcutaneously or intramuscularly
- Severe hypoglycemia (weight < 20 kg or age < 6 years): 0.5 mg or 20-30 mcg/kg subcutaneously or intramuscularly
Indications
- Treatment of severe hypoglycemia in diabetes patients
- Diagnostic agent for radiologic examinations of the gastrointestinal tract
- Beta-blocker and calcium channel blocker overdose antidote (off-label)
Mechanism of Action
- Stimulates adenylate cyclase to increase cyclic AMP production
- Promotes hepatic glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis, releasing glucose into the blood
- Relaxes smooth muscle of the stomach, duodenum, small bowel, and colon
Contraindications
- Pheochromocytoma (risk of hypertensive crisis)
- Insulinoma (risk of paradoxical hypoglycemia)
- Known hypersensitivity to glucagon or lactose
Adverse Reactions
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tachycardia and hypertension
- Hypokalemia
- Allergic reactions (urticaria, hypotension, respiratory distress)
Drug Interactions
- Indomethacin: May reverse the hyperglycemic effect and cause hypoglycemia
- Warfarin: May increase the anticoagulant effect of warfarin
- Beta-blockers: May cause transient blood pressure and pulse increases when used for reversal
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use