| Glucagon | |||||||||||
| Glucagon is a naturally occuring peptide synthesized in the CNS, where its actions may include regulation of peripheral glucoregulation, yet remain not well understood. Glucagon generally functions as a counterregulatory hormone, opposing the actions of insulin, and maintaining the levels of blood glucose, particularly in patients with hypoglycemia. In patients with diabetes, excess glucagon secretion plays a primary role in the metabolic perturbations associated with diabetes, such as hyperglycemia. | |||||||||||
| Indications: Unconscious, unresponsive or convulsing patient with verified low blood glucose level in whom IV access is not possible and who can not take treatment PO. |
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| Common Side Effects: Nausea, Vomiting, urticaria Potentially Lethal Side Effects: hypotension, respiratory distress, Steven Johnson Syndrome |
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| Contraindications: Pheochromocytoma |
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| Adult dosing*: Hypoglycemia with altered mentation and no IV access: IM: 1 unit dose |
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| Pediatric dosing*: Hypoglycemia with altered mentation and no IV access: IM: 0.1mg/kg, Max 1mg |
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| Notes: - Peak expected glucose levels 26 min after 1 mg glucacon IM. * The definition of hypoglycemia may vary from locale to locale. A typical definition is <40-60mg/dL with any degree of alteration. Neonate hypoglycemia is defined as <40mg/dL. |
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