Glucagon

Nursing pharmacology study reference (NCLEX-style monograph). Numeric values are standard teaching ranges for study and must be verified against current manufacturer labeling before clinical use. This is educational content, not prescribing guidance.

Glucagon (brand names GlucaGen, Baqsimi, Gvoke) — Antihypoglycemic; Pancreatic hormone (glucose-elevating).

Identification

• Therapeutic class: Antihypoglycemic.
• Pharmacologic class: Pancreatic hormone (glucose-elevating).

Pharmacology

• Mechanism of action: Stimulates hepatic glycogenolysis to raise blood glucose; relaxes GI smooth muscle.
• Onset / peak / duration: Onset within minutes; short duration.
• Half-life / therapeutic level: Short; no routine level.

Clinical use

• Indications: Severe hypoglycemia when the patient cannot take oral glucose; beta blocker overdose (off-label); GI imaging adjunct.
• Usual dose, route, frequency: IM, SubQ, or IV 1 mg; intranasal 3 mg.
• Maximum dose / adjustments: Repeat if no response in 15 minutes; less effective if glycogen stores are depleted (starvation, alcohol use).

Safety

• Contraindications: Pheochromocytoma, insulinoma.
• Black box warning: None.
• Interactions: Warfarin (may increase effect), beta blockers.
• Pregnancy / lactation: Use in emergencies.
• High-alert: No.

Adverse effects

• Common side effects: Nausea, vomiting, headache.
• Serious effects to report: Failure to respond (give glucose and seek emergency care).
• Antidote / reversal: Not applicable.

Nursing process

• Assessment before administration: Confirm hypoglycemia, level of consciousness.
• Interventions during therapy: Place patient on their side (vomiting risk); give oral carbohydrate once alert.
• Monitor: Blood glucose, level of consciousness.
• Evaluation / expected outcome: Restored consciousness and glucose.

Patient teaching

• Patient teaching: Teach family how and when to give it.
• Notify provider if: No response, recurrent severe lows.
• Administration tips: IM, SubQ, IV, or intranasal; follow with food when able to swallow.