Glucagon
A hormone that tells the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream quickly.
Dosage by Body Weight
If child is <20 kg, give 0.5 mg; if >20 kg, give 1 mg. Nasal form is 3 mg for all ages >4 years.
- Body Weight
- Below 20 kg
- Dose
- 0.5 mg (Injection)
- Frequency
- Single dose (Emergency)
- Tracking Notes
- Turn child on side after injection as vomiting may occur.
- Body Weight
- Above 20 kg
- Dose
- 1 mg (Injection)
- Frequency
- Single dose (Emergency)
- Tracking Notes
- Follow with fast-acting sugar once child is conscious.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 20 kg | 0.5 mg (Injection) | Single dose (Emergency) | Turn child on side after injection as vomiting may occur. |
| Above 20 kg | 1 mg (Injection) | Single dose (Emergency) | Follow with fast-acting sugar once child is conscious. |
Formulation
Purpose
Emergency treatment of severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in diabetics.
Generic Name
GlucagonBranded Drug Names
Glucagon is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.
Alternatives
Safety Advice
Alcohol
CAUTIONGlucagon: Alcohol can affect blood sugar, hormones, or dehydration risk. Avoid or limit alcohol and follow your clinician advice.
Pregnancy
SAFE IF PRESCRIBEDGlucagon: Use during pregnancy only with specialist guidance; dose needs may change and monitoring is important.
Breast Feeding
SAFE IF PRESCRIBEDGlucagon: Use while breastfeeding only as directed; endocrine treatments often require ongoing clinical monitoring.
Driving
CAUTIONGlucagon: May affect alertness indirectly through low blood sugar, dizziness, or hormone imbalance. Avoid driving if symptoms occur.
Liver
CAUTIONGlucagon: Use with medical guidance in liver disease, especially when metabolism or blood sugar control may be affected.
Kidney
CAUTIONGlucagon: Kidney disease can change dosing or monitoring needs for several endocrine medicines.