Glucagon

Expert Advice

Dosage Forms Available

• Glucagon is available in various formulations, suitable for different routes of administration.

• It is available as a powder that must be mixed with sterile water before administration. This form is designed for subcutaneous, intramuscular, or intravenous injection.

• Additionally, a nasal powder form can be administered through an intranasal device directly into one nostril.

• Ready-to-use liquid formulations are also available, administered by injection through subcutaneous, intramuscular, or intravenous routes.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Glucagon is intended for use in both adults and children.

Contraindications

• Glucagon is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to glucagon or any formulation components.

• It should not be used by individuals with pheochromocytoma or glucagonoma.

• Patients suffering from chronic hypoglycemia not associated with diabetes, such as those caused by starvation, should not use Glucagon.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This medicine may interact with anticoagulants (such as warfarin), beta-blockers (like atenolol and propranolol), anti-inflammatory medications (including indomethacin), and anticholinergic medicines (such as atropine and scopolamine).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Glucagon might lead to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and rapid heart rate. If these symptoms occur, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly.

• If you forget to administer Glucagon during a hypoglycemic episode, do so as soon as you remember if the patient is still hypoglycemic. If blood glucose levels have been stabilized by other means, skip the missed dose.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience severe side effects or worsening symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• To manage nausea or vomiting, try taking Glucagon with a small amount of water, if possible, and resting until the feeling passes.

• If experiencing dizziness after administration, rest until the sensation subsides.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Glucagon may cause dizziness or blurred vision due to its rapid effect on increasing blood sugar levels. It is recommended to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery immediately after administering Glucagon until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• The safety of Glucagon during pregnancy has not been fully established. It should only be used if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor.

• Lactating women may use Glucagon as it is not expected to harm the nursing infant; however, consulting a doctor is advised before use.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Caution should be exercised when using Glucagon in patients with cardiovascular disease due to its effects on heart rate and blood pressure.

• Individuals with insulinoma must use Glucagon with caution because it can potentially exacerbate hypoglycemia.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Ensure that low blood sugar levels are managed promptly by carrying sources of quick-absorbing sugar (such as glucose tablets or gel).

• Maintain regular carbohydrate intake throughout the day to prevent hypoglycemic episodes.

• Monitor blood glucose levels regularly to detect any significant changes that might require adjustment of diabetes management plans.

• Engage in regular physical activity to help maintain stable blood glucose levels; however, always ensure you have quick-access glucose sources during exercise.

• Educate family members and close contacts on how to recognise symptoms of severe hypoglycemia and how to administer Glucagon if necessary.

Frequently asked questions

Terms & Conditions