What is Glucagon?
Glucagon increases blood sugar. It also slows the involuntary movements of the stomach, intestines, and other muscles that help with digestion.The nasal form of glucagon is used for the treatment of severe hypoglycemia in adults and children over 4 years old.Glucagon can also be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Glucagon
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, feeling lightheaded, or swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat.
If you experience symptoms of high blood pressure, such as a severe migraine or pounding in the neck or ears, call your doctor immediately.
Glucagon side effects include:
- Runny or stuffy nasal discharge;
- Nosebleed;
- Nausea, vomiting;
- Red or watery eyes;
- Itchy eyes, nose, or throat
There may be other side effects. Call your physician if experiencing symptoms related to side effects; for reporting side effects call the FDA directly at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Similar/related drugs
Lexiscan, Mannitol, Glucagon, Baqsimi, Arginine, Tubersol, and Diazoxide
Warnings
Glucagon is only to be used if a person has a hypoglycemic episode and cannot eat or pass out. Make sure you are familiar with how to administer glucagon by nasal spray before you use it.At first signs of hypoglycemia it's essential to act quickly; low blood sugar levels can quickly escalate to seizures, coma or even death if left untreated.If you have a tumour in the adrenal gland or pancreas pheochromocytoma),, then you should not take glucagon.
Before you take this drug
This medicine should not be used if:
- A tumour of the pancreas;
- A tumour of the glandular (pheochromocytoma).
Glucagon is only to be used if a person cannot eat, is unconscious, or has a seizure.
Tell your doctor if:
- You have a tumour in the pancreas.
- You haven't eaten regularly in the past
- You have had low blood sugar for a long time.
Do not administer this medicine to an infant without consulting a doctor.The use of glucagon should not harm an unborn child, but treating hypoglycemia quickly would be more important than any potential risks.Breastfeeding may not be possible while taking this medication. You should ask your doctor if there are any risks.It may not be possible in an emergency to inform your carers that you are breastfeeding or pregnant. Be sure to tell any doctor who is caring for you or your child that you've taken this medication.
How to take Glucagon?
As soon as hypoglycemia is detected, it should be treated.Low blood sugar can result in seizures, coma or even death.Glucagon Nasal is a powder that can be inserted in the nose. Air does not need to be breathed in for its benefits to take effect. You will learn how to use glucagon in severe hypoglycemia. After using glucagon nasally, call your doctor.Please read and follow all directions included with your medication carefully, if there are any that you do not understand please consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist immediately for clarification. If this still doesn't make sense please ask!Make sure you understand how to administer glucagon nasally to yourself before you use it. Dosage instructions from your doctor should be followed very closely.Get emergency medical attention if the patient doesn't improve in 15 minutes. You may need to administer a second dose.Stress, illness, surgery, or alcohol consumption can affect blood sugar levels. Consult your doctor before changing the dose or schedule of your medication.Follow your diet, medications, and exercise regimens closely to avoid severe hypoglycemia.You should consume a sugary source that acts quickly (fruit juices, glucose, hard candies, raisins, or non-diet soft drinks) before eating a small snack or meal, such as crackers and cheese or peanut butter.Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature. Keep the medicine in its original packaging until it is time to use it. If the date of expiration is past, replace the medicine.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Since glucagon can be used when needed, there is no daily schedule.
What happens if you overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.Symptoms of an overdose include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, a rapid heartbeat, and increased blood pressure.
What should be avoided?
Take only nasal medicine. Nasal medication is only to be used in the nose.Avoid alcohol. Alcohol can cause your blood sugar to drop.
Interaction with other drug
Other medicines can also affect your blood glucose, and some can even increase or decrease the effect of medications used to treat diabetes. You may also experience fewer hypoglycemic symptoms when taking certain drugs, making it more difficult to detect low blood sugar. These include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. This list does not include all possible interactions. Inform your doctor of all medications you begin or stop taking.
