Glucagen (Glucagon)

Glucagen is indicated for the rapid reversal of severe hypoglycemia when oral glucose administration is not feasible.

• Acute treatment of insulin‑induced hypoglycemia in diabetic patients.
• Emergency management of hypoglycemic episodes in children and adults.
• Use by trained caregivers or healthcare professionals during a hypoglycemic crisis.
• Administration when the patient is unconscious, unable to swallow, or experiencing seizures.
• Rescue therapy in settings where intravenous dextrose is unavailable.
• The drug is administered as a single injection and acts within minutes to raise blood glucose levels.

Glucagen may cause a range of physiological responses after injection, varying from mild and transient to rare but serious events.

Common

• Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal discomfort that usually resolves without treatment.
• Flushing, warmth, or a sensation of heat at the injection site.
• Headache, dizziness, or mild tremor.
• Transient increase in heart rate or palpitations.
• Mild tremor or shakiness of the limbs.
• Temporary feeling of anxiety or nervousness.

Serious

• Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
• Severe hypotension or cardiovascular collapse, especially in patients with underlying heart disease.
• Cardiac arrhythmias or chest pain following administration.
• Seizure activity in rare cases.
• Persistent hyperglycemia requiring medical evaluation.

When using Glucagen, several precautions should be observed to ensure safe and effective treatment of hypoglycemia.

• Confirm hypoglycemia with a blood glucose measurement before administration, unless the patient is unconscious.
• Avoid repeated dosing within a short interval; follow clinical guidelines for repeat injections.
• Store the product according to the label, protecting it from light and extreme temperatures.
• Do not use if the solution is discolored, contains particles, or the expiration date has passed.
• Patients with pheochromocytoma or insulinoma may have exaggerated responses; monitor closely.
• Pregnancy and lactation status are not well established; use only if the potential benefit outweighs risk.

Glucagen can interact with other medications or substances that affect blood glucose levels or cardiovascular function, requiring careful consideration.

Avoid

• Concurrent use of beta‑blockers, which may mask typical hypoglycemia symptoms after glucagon administration.
• Co‑administration with other rapid‑acting glucose‑raising agents, as this may cause excessive hyperglycemia.

Use with caution

• Insulin therapy: monitor glucose closely to avoid over‑correction.
• Oral hypoglycemic agents (e.g., sulfonylureas, meglitinides): increased risk of recurrent hypoglycemia after glucagon effect wanes.
• Cardiovascular drugs (e.g., nitrates, calcium channel blockers): observe for potential blood pressure fluctuations.
• Corticosteroids: may alter glucose metabolism, requiring closer monitoring after glucagon.