Glucagen (Glucagon)

Glucagen is indicated for the rapid treatment of severe hypoglycemia when oral glucose is not feasible or effective.

• Emergency reversal of hypoglycemia in diabetic patients receiving insulin or sulfonylureas.
• Management of hypoglycemia unawareness in individuals with type 1 diabetes.
• Treatment of hypoglycemic episodes during anesthesia or surgery.
• Use in pediatric patients with congenital hyperinsulinism causing low blood sugar.
• Support for caregivers and first responders to restore consciousness in acute hypoglycemic events.

Glucagen may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are mild and transient, while rare serious events require immediate medical attention.

Common

• Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal discomfort.
• Flushing or warmth at the injection site.
• Transient headache or dizziness.

Serious

• Severe allergic reaction such as anaphylaxis with rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Rapid heart rate (tachycardia) or irregular heartbeat.
• Persistent low blood pressure (hypotension) leading to fainting.

When using Glucagen, healthcare providers should consider several precautions to ensure safe and effective administration.

• Verify hypoglycemia severity before injection; use only when blood glucose is critically low.
• Ensure correct route (intramuscular, intravenous, or subcutaneous) and proper technique.
• Monitor patient vital signs and glucose levels after administration.
• Avoid repeat dosing within a short interval unless directed by a clinician.
• Store the product according to manufacturer guidelines, protecting it from light and extreme temperatures.
• Educate patients and caregivers on recognizing hypoglycemia signs and proper injection procedures.

Glucagen can interact with other medications or substances that affect glucose metabolism or cardiovascular function.

Avoid

• Beta‑blockers, which may mask typical hypoglycemia symptoms after glucagon administration.
• Long‑acting insulin analogues that could prolong low glucose states despite glucagon use.
• Medications that cause severe vasoconstriction, potentially reducing glucagon absorption.

Use with caution

• Catecholamine agents (e.g., epinephrine) that may amplify cardiovascular effects.
• Diuretics that influence fluid balance and blood pressure.
• Anticholinergic drugs that could affect gastrointestinal motility and glucagon’s action.