Why is this medication prescribed?

Glucagon injection is typically prescribed for the treatment of severe hypoglycemia, which is a condition characterized by very low blood sugar levels. It is mainly used in emergency situations when a person with diabetes is unable to consume food or drink, or when they are unconscious or unable to swallow.

Glucagon is a hormone that helps increase blood sugar levels by stimulating the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream. By administering a glucagon injection, it can rapidly raise blood sugar levels and prevent or reverse the symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as confusion, weakness, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.

How should this medicine be used?

• Reconstitution: Glucagon injection comes as a powder in a vial and needs to be mixed with a diluent before use. The diluent is usually provided in the package. Follow the instructions provided with the glucagon kit to mix the solution properly.
• Administration: Once the glucagon solution is prepared, it is injected into a muscle, typically the buttock, thigh, or upper arm. It can be administered by a healthcare professional, a family member, or the person experiencing hypoglycemia if they are conscious and able to do so.
• After administration: After administering the glucagon injection, it is important to turn the person on their side to prevent choking in case they vomit. Monitor their condition closely and seek medical assistance if necessary.

It is crucial to contact a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or emergency services, whenever glucagon is used, as the underlying cause of the severe hypoglycemia needs to be addressed to prevent future occurrences.

Other uses for this medicine

Aside from its primary use in treating severe hypoglycemia, glucagon injection has been explored for various other medical purposes. Here are a few additional uses:

• Beta-blocker or calcium channel blocker overdose: Glucagon can be used as an antidote for overdoses involving beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers. It works by increasing cardiac output and counteracting the cardiovascular effects of these medications.
• Esophageal motility disorders: Glucagon has been studied as a treatment for certain esophageal motility disorders, such as achalasia, by relaxing the smooth muscles of the esophagus and improving swallowing function.
• Radiologic imaging: Glucagon can be administered prior to certain radiologic imaging procedures, such as abdominal or pelvic scans, to reduce bowel peristalsis and provide better image quality.
• Vasodilatory shock: Glucagon has been investigated as a potential treatment for vasodilatory shock, a condition characterized by low blood pressure and poor tissue perfusion. It can increase blood pressure by dilating blood vessels.
• Beta-cell imaging: Glucagon has been used in conjunction with imaging agents to visualize and study pancreatic beta cells, which are responsible for producing insulin. This application is mainly used for research purposes.

What special precautions should I follow?

When administering Glucagon Injection, there are several special precautions you should follow. Here are some important considerations:

• Proper training: Ensure that you and any caregivers or individuals who may need to administer the injection are properly trained in its correct usage. Familiarize yourself with the instructions provided by the healthcare professional or on the product packaging.
• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies to glucagon or any of its components. If you experience signs of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or hives, seek immediate medical attention.
• Medical conditions: Discuss any existing medical conditions, such as pheochromocytoma (a type of adrenal gland tumor), insulinoma (a tumor that produces insulin), or any adrenal gland problems with your healthcare provider. These conditions may affect the response to glucagon and require special consideration.
• Hypoglycemia awareness: Learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). It is important to be able to differentiate between hypoglycemia and other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.
• Storage: Follow the storage instructions provided with the product. Glucagon may need to be stored at room temperature or refrigerated, depending on the specific formulation. Ensure that the medication is not expired, and check for any visible signs of deterioration before use.
• Emergency contact: Ensure that you have access to emergency medical assistance in case of severe hypoglycemic episodes where you or the person receiving the injection cannot eat or drink. Inform your close contacts and caregivers about the situation and provide them with relevant instructions.
• Side effects: Familiarize yourself with the potential side effects of glucagon. Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, increased heart rate, or temporary high blood pressure. These side effects are usually transient and resolve on their own.
• Monitoring: After administering glucagon, closely monitor the person’s response. It is crucial to have a source of glucose, such as oral glucose tablets or a fast-acting carbohydrate, readily available for consumption once the person is able to safely ingest them.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Glucagon Injection is a medication used to treat severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in emergency situations. It does not require specific dietary instructions. However, it is essential to maintain a balanced and appropriate diet for managing diabetes or any underlying condition that may lead to hypoglycemia.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Regarding missed doses of Glucagon Injection, it is crucial to understand that glucagon is typically used in emergency situations when a person with diabetes experiences severe hypoglycemia and cannot consume oral carbohydrates.

If you forget to administer a dose of Glucagon Injection, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Delaying or skipping the administration of glucagon during an emergency can be dangerous. Contact emergency medical services or your healthcare provider for guidance on what to do in such a situation.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Glucagon Injection, like any medication, can cause side effects. The following are potential side effects that have been reported with the use of glucagon:

• Nausea and vomiting: These are the most common side effects associated with glucagon administration. They are usually mild and temporary.
• Allergic reactions: Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to glucagon. Signs of an allergic reaction may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, rash, or hives. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
• Increased heart rate: Glucagon can cause a temporary increase in heart rate. This side effect is usually transient and resolves on its own.
• Temporary increase in blood pressure: Glucagon may cause a temporary rise in blood pressure. This effect is usually short-lived and returns to normal without any intervention.

It is important to note that these side effects are generally mild and short-lived. Most individuals tolerate glucagon well without experiencing significant adverse reactions.

If you have any concerns about the side effects of glucagon or if you experience any unusual or severe symptoms after its administration, it is recommended to seek medical advice from your healthcare provider.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Here’s what you should know about the storage and disposal of Glucagon Injection, as well as what to do in case of emergency or overdose:

Storage:

• Follow the storage instructions provided with the specific brand of Glucagon Injection you have, as different products may have slight variations.
• In general, Glucagon Injection should be stored at room temperature (between 68°F and 77°F or 20°C and 25°C), away from direct heat and light.
• Do not refrigerate Glucagon unless otherwise instructed by your healthcare provider or the product packaging.

Disposal:

• Unused or expired Glucagon Injection should be disposed of properly to ensure it does not pose a risk to others. Follow local regulations for the disposal of medical waste or consult with your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
• Do not throw Glucagon Injection in the regular trash or flush it down the toilet unless specifically instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• If you or someone you know is experiencing severe hypoglycemia and is unconscious or unable to swallow, a glucagon injection should be administered immediately.
• Glucagon injections are typically given by a family member or caregiver, so it’s important to inform those close to you about the procedure and ensure they are trained to administer it.
• If you are alone and unable to administer the glucagon injection, call emergency services immediately.
• After administering glucagon, turn the person onto their side to prevent choking in case they vomit.

What other information should I know?

Other information to know:

• Glucagon Injection is usually supplied as a kit that contains a vial of powdered glucagon and a syringe or device filled with sterile water for reconstitution.
• Before using Glucagon Injection, it’s important to read the instructions provided with the product carefully and familiarize yourself with the proper administration technique.
• Notify your healthcare provider if you have a history of adrenal insufficiency, pheochromocytoma (a type of tumor), or any known allergies to glucagon or its components.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements, as they may interact with Glucagon Injection.
• Regularly check the expiration date on the Glucagon Injection kit and replace it before it expires.
• It’s essential to have a plan in place for managing hypoglycemia, including carrying a Glucagon Injection kit with you at all times if needed.

Please note that the information provided here is for general knowledge and should not replace the specific instructions and advice given by your healthcare provider.