Uses of undefined

Glucagon is used when a person with diabetes becomes unconscious due to very low blood sugar, a condition known as severe hypoglycemia. This medication is administered when the individual is unable to consume sugar orally.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Glucagon is usually administered as an intramuscular injection (into a muscle). However, it can also be given subcutaneously (under the skin) or intravenously, depending on the specific situation and the healthcare provider's judgment.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Contact your physician immediately if you experience allergies to this drug and its ingredients. Glucagon should not be used if you have a tumor in your adrenal gland. Certain medical conditions can interact with the effects of this drug, and using it in this situation may not be safe. Before initiating the treatment, inform your physician if you are fasting. This drug may not work effectively if you have been fasting for an extended period. This is because the body's glycogen stores (a source of glucose) may be depleted during prolonged fasting.

Precautions

Notify your physician if you have low blood sugar due to excessive alcohol consumption and low adrenaline levels. These conditions can affect the drug's effectiveness, and the response can be reduced. Hence, administering Glucagon in this situation should be discussed with a physician. You can use this drug if you experience very low blood sugar during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, it's essential to consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking any medicine if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. 

Side Effects

The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Glucagon are nausea and vomiting. Some serious side effects include allergic reactions (sweating, wheezing, rapid heartbeat, swelling in the face, falling very ill).

Word Of Advice

Maintain a record of Glucagon administrations, including the date, time, and circumstances. This information can be valuable for both the patient and healthcare providers in managing diabetes. Check the expiration date regularly to ensure that the drug is still effective. Replace it if it has expired. Avoid exposing the drug to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.

Frequently Asked Question

• What is the role of Glucagon in radiological examinations?
• Glucagon is used in radiological examinations of the gastrointestinal tract to relax the muscles of the stomach, small bowel, duodenum, and colon. This helps improve the quality of images during diagnostic procedures.

• Are there any contraindications for using Glucagon?
• Glucagon should not be given to patients with Pheochromocytoma, a tumor in the adrenal gland. It may also not work effectively in cases of prolonged fasting, low blood sugar due to alcohol consumption, tumors releasing excessive insulin or Glucagon, or low adrenaline levels.

• What are the common side effects of Glucagon?
• The common side effects of Glucagon can include nausea and vomiting. These side effects are usually temporary and subside once blood sugar levels stabilize.

• How is Glucagon administered?
• Glucagon is usually administered as an injection. It is available in the form of an injectable kit that can be given either intramuscularly (into a muscle) or subcutaneously (under the skin).

• What should I do if I need to use Glucagon in an emergency situation?
• In an emergency situation where someone with diabetes is unconscious due to severe hypoglycemia, follow the instructions provided with the Glucagon kit. Typically, it involves reconstituting the Glucagon powder with a diluent, drawing it into a syringe, and injecting it into the muscle. Seek immediate medical emergency as well.