Medications and Drugs

GENERIC NAME: GLUCAGON RECOMBINANT - INJECTION (GLUE-kuh-gone)

BRAND NAME(S): Glucagon, Glucagon Emergency Kit

Medication Uses | Other Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: Glucagon is a hormone used to quickly increase blood sugar levels in diabetics with low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Glucagon is also used as a diagnostic aid during x-ray examination of the stomach, intestines, and colon (decreases GI motility).

OTHER USES: Glucagon may also be used to treat the symptoms of overdose of some medications.

HOW TO USE: Inject this medication into a vein (IV), a muscle (IM), or under the skin (SC), as directed by your doctor. Learn all preparation and usage instructions for this medication. After preparation, use the medication immediately. Discard any unused liquid. If you have questions about any of this information, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Before using, check the product visually for particles or discoloration (cloudiness). After the product has been mixed with the liquid provided, the medication should be clear, with a water- like consistency. If particles or discoloration are present, do not use the liquid. When treating severely low blood glucose (hypoglycemia) and if the patient is unconscious, inject the glucagon and turn the patient on their side to avoid choking if they vomit. The doctor must be called immediately. The patient should regain consciousness in less than 15 minutes. If not, a second dose may be given. A sugar source (e.g., glucose tablets, juice) should be given when the patient regains consciousness. Glucagon is only effective for 90 minutes and is to be used only until the patient is able to swallow. The blood sugar level should be kept up by eating snacks consisting of crackers, cheese, half a sandwich, or a glass of milk. The blood sugar should be checked hourly for three to four hours after regaining consciousness. Notify your doctor immediately when an episode of low blood sugar has occurred. Your insulin dose and diet may need to be adjusted. Closely monitor your blood sugar level to prevent it from getting too low.