Glucagen (Glucagon)

Glucagen is a prescription medication that contains the hormone glucagon as its active ingredient. It is supplied in an injectable form for intramuscular or subcutaneous administration. Marketed in the European Union, Glucagen is used without a specified strength label, and it belongs to the hormone drug class and the antihypoglycemic therapeutic class. It is intended for emergency treatment of low blood sugar and is available only with a physician’s prescription.

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.