Dosing & Uses
Dosage Forms & Strengths
injection, powder for reconstitution (GlucaGen, generic)
- 1mg/vial
injectable solution (Gvoke)
- 1mg/0.2mL (single-dose prefilled syringe or HypoPen autoinjector)
Hypoglycemia
Indicated for severe hypoglycemic reactions in patients with diabetes treated with insulin
1 mg (1 unit) IM/SC/IV if no IV for dextrose
Repeat q15min once or twice; give dextrose as soon as it is available and if no response
Administer supplemental carbohydrate to replete glycogen stores
Diagnostic Aid
GlucaGen only
Indicated for use during radiologic examinations to temporarily inhibit movement of the gastrointestinal tract
To inhibit motility of stomach and small bowel: 0.2-0.5 mg IV over 1 min or 1 mg IM
To inhibit motility of colon: 0.5-0.75 mg IV over 1 min or 1-2 mg IM
Bolus doses >1 mg administered IV may cause nausea and vomiting and are not recommended
After completing the diagnostic procedure, give oral carbohydrates to patients who have been fasting, if compatible with the diagnostic procedure applied
Beta-Blocker & Calcium Channel Blocker Toxicity (Off-label)
Indicated off-label for overdose of beta blockers or calcium channel blockers
Load: 50-150 mcg/kg IVP over 1 minute, THEN
3-5 mg/hr or 50-100 mcg/kg/hr IV; titrate infusion to achieve adequate clinical response
Dosage Forms & Strengths
injection, powder (GlucaGen, generic)
- 1mg/vial
injectable solution (Gvoke)
- 0.5mg/0.1mL (single-dose prefilled syringe or HypoPen autoinjector)
- 1mg/0.2mL (single-dose prefilled syringe or HypoPen autoinjector)
Hypoglycemia
Indicated for severe hypoglycemic reactions in patients with diabetes treated with insulin
Administer oral glucose/IV dextrose to replete glycogen stores
GlucaGen
- Weight <25 kg or unknown weight and age <6 years: 0.5 mg SC/IM/IV; may repeat in 15 min if necessary
- Weight ≥25 kg or unknown weight and age ≥6 years: 1 mg SC/IM/IV; may repeat in 15 min if necessary
Glucagon Emergency Kit
- Weight <20 kg or unknown weight and age <6 years: 0.5 mg SC/IM/IV q15min PRN, OR 0.02-0.03 mg/kg/dose SC/IM/IV; may repeat in 15 min if necessary
- Weight ≥20 kg or unknown weight and age ≥6 years: 1 mg SC/IM/IV; may repeat in 15 min if necessary q20min PRN
Gvoke
- Indicated for severe hypoglycemia in pediatric and adult patients with diabetes aged ≥2 years
- <2 years: Safety and efficacy not established
-
2 to <12 years
- <45 kg: 0.5 mg SC; may repeat in 15 min if necessary
- ≥45 kg: 1 mg SC; may repeat in 15 min if necessary
-
≥12 years
- 1 mg SC; may repeat in 15 min if necessary
Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia (Orphan)
Orphan designation for treatment of hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia (HH)
Sponsor
- Xeris Pharmaceuticals, Inc; 3208 Red River Street, Suite 300; Austin, TX 78705
Interactions
Interaction Checker
No Results
Contraindicated
Serious - Use Alternative
Significant - Monitor Closely
Minor
Contraindicated (0)
Serious - Use Alternative (18)
- aclidinium
glucagon increases toxicity of aclidinium by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration of anticholinergic drugs and glucagon increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions due to additive effects on inhibition of gastrointestinal motility. .
- atropine
glucagon increases effects of atropine by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration of anticholinergic drugs and glucagon increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions due to additive effects on inhibition of gastrointestinal motility. .
- benztropine
glucagon increases toxicity of benztropine by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration of anticholinergic drugs and glucagon increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions due to additive effects on inhibition of gastrointestinal motility. .
- dicyclomine
glucagon increases toxicity of dicyclomine by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration of anticholinergic drugs and glucagon increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions due to additive effects on inhibition of gastrointestinal motility. .
- glycopyrrolate
glucagon increases toxicity of glycopyrrolate by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration of anticholinergic drugs and glucagon increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions due to additive effects on inhibition of gastrointestinal motility. .
- glycopyrrolate inhaled
glucagon increases toxicity of glycopyrrolate inhaled by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration of anticholinergic drugs and glucagon increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions due to additive effects on inhibition of gastrointestinal motility. .
- hyoscyamine
glucagon increases toxicity of hyoscyamine by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration of anticholinergic drugs and glucagon increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions due to additive effects on inhibition of gastrointestinal motility. .
- hyoscyamine spray
glucagon increases toxicity of hyoscyamine spray by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration of anticholinergic drugs and glucagon increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions due to additive effects on inhibition of gastrointestinal motility. .
- ipratropium
glucagon increases toxicity of ipratropium by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration of anticholinergic drugs and glucagon increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions due to additive effects on inhibition of gastrointestinal motility. .
- methscopolamine
glucagon increases toxicity of methscopolamine by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration of anticholinergic drugs and glucagon increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions due to additive effects on inhibition of gastrointestinal motility. .
- orphenadrine
glucagon increases toxicity of orphenadrine by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration of anticholinergic drugs and glucagon increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions due to additive effects on inhibition of gastrointestinal motility. .
- propantheline
glucagon increases toxicity of propantheline by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration of anticholinergic drugs and glucagon increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions due to additive effects on inhibition of gastrointestinal motility. .
- scopolamine
glucagon increases toxicity of scopolamine by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration of anticholinergic drugs and glucagon increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions due to additive effects on inhibition of gastrointestinal motility. .
- tiotropium
glucagon increases toxicity of tiotropium by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration of anticholinergic drugs and glucagon increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions due to additive effects on inhibition of gastrointestinal motility. .
- trihexyphenidyl
glucagon increases toxicity of trihexyphenidyl by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration of anticholinergic drugs and glucagon increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions due to additive effects on inhibition of gastrointestinal motility. .
- tropicamide
glucagon increases toxicity of tropicamide by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration of anticholinergic drugs and glucagon increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions due to additive effects on inhibition of gastrointestinal motility. .
- umeclidinium bromide
glucagon increases toxicity of umeclidinium bromide by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration of anticholinergic drugs and glucagon increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions due to additive effects on inhibition of gastrointestinal motility. .
- umeclidinium bromide/vilanterol inhaled
glucagon increases toxicity of umeclidinium bromide/vilanterol inhaled by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Coadministration of anticholinergic drugs and glucagon increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions due to additive effects on inhibition of gastrointestinal motility. .
Monitor Closely (31)
- acebutolol
glucagon decreases toxicity of acebutolol by sympathetic (adrenergic) effects, including increased blood pressure and heart rate. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of glucagon with beta-blockers may have transiently increased pulse and blood pressure.
- atenolol
glucagon decreases toxicity of atenolol by sympathetic (adrenergic) effects, including increased blood pressure and heart rate. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of glucagon with beta-blockers may have transiently increased pulse and blood pressure.
- betaxolol
glucagon decreases toxicity of betaxolol by sympathetic (adrenergic) effects, including increased blood pressure and heart rate. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of glucagon with beta-blockers may have transiently increased pulse and blood pressure.
- bisoprolol
glucagon decreases toxicity of bisoprolol by sympathetic (adrenergic) effects, including increased blood pressure and heart rate. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of glucagon with beta-blockers may have transiently increased pulse and blood pressure.
- carvedilol
glucagon decreases toxicity of carvedilol by sympathetic (adrenergic) effects, including increased blood pressure and heart rate. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of glucagon with beta-blockers may have transiently increased pulse and blood pressure.
- celiprolol
glucagon decreases toxicity of celiprolol by sympathetic (adrenergic) effects, including increased blood pressure and heart rate. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of glucagon with beta-blockers may have transiently increased pulse and blood pressure.
- esmolol
glucagon decreases toxicity of esmolol by sympathetic (adrenergic) effects, including increased blood pressure and heart rate. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of glucagon with beta-blockers may have transiently increased pulse and blood pressure.
- indomethacin
indomethacin decreases effects of glucagon by unknown mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor. In patients taking indomethacin, glucagon may lose its ability to raise blood glucose or may even produce hypoglycemia.
- insulin aspart
glucagon decreases effects of insulin aspart by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Endogenous glucagon is a regulatory hormone that increases blood glucose levels; exogenous glucagon is often used to treat hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes mellitus.
- insulin aspart protamine/insulin aspart
glucagon decreases effects of insulin aspart protamine/insulin aspart by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Endogenous glucagon is a regulatory hormone that increases blood glucose levels; exogenous glucagon is often used to treat hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes mellitus.
- insulin degludec
glucagon decreases effects of insulin degludec by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Endogenous glucagon is a regulatory hormone that increases blood glucose levels; exogenous glucagon is often used to treat hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes mellitus.
- insulin degludec/insulin aspart
glucagon decreases effects of insulin degludec/insulin aspart by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Endogenous glucagon is a regulatory hormone that increases blood glucose levels; exogenous glucagon is often used to treat hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes mellitus.
- insulin detemir
glucagon decreases effects of insulin detemir by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Endogenous glucagon is a regulatory hormone that increases blood glucose levels; exogenous glucagon is often used to treat hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes mellitus.
- insulin glargine
glucagon decreases effects of insulin glargine by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Endogenous glucagon is a regulatory hormone that increases blood glucose levels; exogenous glucagon is often used to treat hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes mellitus.
- insulin glulisine
glucagon decreases effects of insulin glulisine by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Endogenous glucagon is a regulatory hormone that increases blood glucose levels; exogenous glucagon is often used to treat hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes mellitus.
- insulin inhaled
glucagon decreases effects of insulin inhaled by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Endogenous glucagon is a regulatory hormone that increases blood glucose levels; exogenous glucagon is often used to treat hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes mellitus.
- insulin isophane human/insulin regular human
glucagon decreases effects of insulin isophane human/insulin regular human by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Endogenous glucagon is a regulatory hormone that increases blood glucose levels; exogenous glucagon is often used to treat hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes mellitus.
- insulin lispro
glucagon decreases effects of insulin lispro by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Endogenous glucagon is a regulatory hormone that increases blood glucose levels; exogenous glucagon is often used to treat hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes mellitus.
- insulin lispro protamine/insulin lispro
glucagon decreases effects of insulin lispro protamine/insulin lispro by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Endogenous glucagon is a regulatory hormone that increases blood glucose levels; exogenous glucagon is often used to treat hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes mellitus.
- insulin NPH
glucagon decreases effects of insulin NPH by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Endogenous glucagon is a regulatory hormone that increases blood glucose levels; exogenous glucagon is often used to treat hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes mellitus.
- insulin regular human
glucagon decreases effects of insulin regular human by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Endogenous glucagon is a regulatory hormone that increases blood glucose levels; exogenous glucagon is often used to treat hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes mellitus.
- labetalol
glucagon decreases toxicity of labetalol by sympathetic (adrenergic) effects, including increased blood pressure and heart rate. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of glucagon with beta-blockers may have transiently increased pulse and blood pressure.
- metoprolol
glucagon decreases toxicity of metoprolol by sympathetic (adrenergic) effects, including increased blood pressure and heart rate. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of glucagon with beta-blockers may have transiently increased pulse and blood pressure.
- nadolol
glucagon decreases toxicity of nadolol by sympathetic (adrenergic) effects, including increased blood pressure and heart rate. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of glucagon with beta-blockers may have transiently increased pulse and blood pressure.
- nebivolol
glucagon decreases toxicity of nebivolol by sympathetic (adrenergic) effects, including increased blood pressure and heart rate. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of glucagon with beta-blockers may have transiently increased pulse and blood pressure.
- penbutolol
glucagon decreases toxicity of penbutolol by sympathetic (adrenergic) effects, including increased blood pressure and heart rate. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of glucagon with beta-blockers may have transiently increased pulse and blood pressure.
- pindolol
glucagon decreases toxicity of pindolol by sympathetic (adrenergic) effects, including increased blood pressure and heart rate. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of glucagon with beta-blockers may have transiently increased pulse and blood pressure.
- propranolol
glucagon decreases toxicity of propranolol by sympathetic (adrenergic) effects, including increased blood pressure and heart rate. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of glucagon with beta-blockers may have transiently increased pulse and blood pressure.
- sotalol
glucagon decreases toxicity of sotalol by sympathetic (adrenergic) effects, including increased blood pressure and heart rate. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of glucagon with beta-blockers may have transiently increased pulse and blood pressure.
- timolol
glucagon decreases toxicity of timolol by sympathetic (adrenergic) effects, including increased blood pressure and heart rate. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of glucagon with beta-blockers may have transiently increased pulse and blood pressure.
- warfarin
glucagon increases effects of warfarin by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Effect observed only when doses exceed 50 mg administered over a 2 day period.
Minor (0)
Adverse Effects
>10%
Gvoke
- Nausea (36-54%)
- Hypoglycemia (27-54%)
- Vomiting (14-23%)
- Headache (15%)
- Hyperglycemia (8-14%)
1-10%
GlucaGen
- Nausea (<10%)
Gvoke
- Injection site reaction (9%)
- Abdominal pain (8%)
- Injection site discomfort (8%)
- Urticaria (8%)
<1%
GlucaGen
- Vomiting
- Hypoglycemia
- Hypoglycemia coma
Frequency Not Defined
Nausea and vomiting
Rash
Hypotension
Tachycardia
Increased blood pressure
Increased pulse
Respiratory distress
Urticaria
Hypoglycemic coma
Hypoglycemia
Postmarketing Reports
Necrolytic migratory erythema
Gvoke
- Hypoglycemia and hypoglycemic coma
Warnings
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity
Pheochromocytoma
Insulinoma
Glucagonoma when used as diagnostic tool
Cautions
Contraindicated in patients with pheochromocytoma; glucagon may stimulate the release of catecholamines from the tumor; if the patient develops a dramatic increase in blood pressure, 5-10 mg of phentolamine mesylate has been shown to be effective in lowering blood pressure for the short time that control would be needed
Used as diagnostic aid may increase myocardial oxygen demand, blood pressure, and pulse rate which may be life-threatening in patients with cardiac disease; cardiac monitoring recommended in patients with cardiac disease during use as a diagnostic aid, and an increase in blood pressure and pulse rate may require therapy
Generalized allergic reactions, including urticaria, respiratory distress, and hypotension reported; if symptoms occur discontinue and treat as indicated
Treatment is effective in treating hypoglycemia only if sufficient hepatic glycogen present; patients in states of starvation, with adrenal insufficiency or chronic hypoglycemia may not have adequate levels of hepatic glycogen for therapy to be effective; patients with these conditions should be treated with glucose
Increased blood pressure and heart rate in patients with cardiac disease reported; monitor patients with known cardiac disease
Caution should be observed when used as an adjunct in endoscopic or radiographic procedures to inhibit gastrointestinal motility in patients with known cardiac disease
Consider measuring blood glucose to monitor response
Treatment with in patients with diabetes mellitus may cause hyperglycemia; monitor diabetic patients for changes in blood glucose levels during treatment and treat if indicated
Necrolytic migratory erythema
- Necrolytic migratory erythema (NME), a skin rash commonly associated with glucagonomas (glucagon-producing tumors) and characterized by scaly, pruritic erythematous plaques, bullae, and erosions, reported postmarketing following continuous glucagon infusion
- NME lesions may affect face, groin, perineum and legs or be more widespread
- In reported cases NME resolved with discontinuation of glucagon, and treatment with corticosteroids was not effective
- Should NME occur, consider whether benefits of continuous glucagon infusion outweigh risks
Insulinoma and glucagonoma
- Do not be administered to patients suspected of having insulinoma
- In patients with insulinoma, IV glucagon may directly or indirectly (through an initial rise in blood glucose) stimulate exaggerated insulin release from an insulinoma and cause hypoglycemia
- Administration may directly or indirectly (through an initial rise in blood glucose) stimulate exaggerated insulin release from an insulinoma
- A patient developing symptoms of hypoglycemia after dose should be given glucose PO/IV
- Use contraindicated in patients with glucagonoma when used as diagnostic aid; test patients suspected of having glucagonoma for blood levels of glucagon prior to treatment, and monitor for changes in blood glucose levels during treatment
Drug interaction overview
-
Beta-blockers
- Patients taking beta-blockers may have a greater increase in both pulse and blood pressure, an increase of which will be temporary because of glucagon’s short half-life.
-
Indomethacin
- Use with caution
- When used with indomethacin, glucagon may lose its ability to raise blood glucose or may even produce hypoglycemia
-
Anticholinergic drugs
- Coadministration with an anticholinergic drug is not recommended due to increased gastrointestinal side effects
-
Warfarin
- Use with caution
- Glucagon may increase the anticoagulant effect of warfarin
-
Insulin
- Insulin reacts antagonistically towards glucagon
- Use with caution when used as a diagnostic aid in diabetes patients
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy
Available data from case reports and a small number of observational studies in pregnant women over decades of use have not identified a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes; multiple small studies have demonstrated a lack of transfer of pancreatic glucagon across human placental barrier during early gestation
Animal data
- In rat and rabbit reproduction studies, no embryofetal toxicity was observed with glucagon administered by injection during period of organogenesis at doses representing up to 100 and 200 times the human dose, respectively, based on body surface area (mg/m2)
Lactation
There is no information available on presence of glucagon in human or animal milk, effects on breastfed child or on milk production; however, glucagon is a peptide and would be expected to be broken down to its constituent amino acids in infant's digestive tract and is therefore, unlikely to cause harm to an exposed infant
Pregnancy Categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk. C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done. D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk. X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist. NA: Information not available.Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Insulin antagonist
Stimulates cAMP synthesis to accelerate hepatic glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis, causing an increase in blood glucose levels
Preexisting hepatic glycogen stores necessary to be effective in treating hypoglycemia
Glucagon also relaxes smooth muscles of GI tract
Absorption
Peak plasma concentration
- GlucaGen IM: 1686 pg/mL
- Gvoke SC: 2481.3 pg/mL
Peak plasma time
- Glucagen IM: 12.5 min
- SC: 30-45 min (GlucaGen); 50 min (Gvoke)
AUC
- Gvoke SC: 3454.6 pg⋅min/mL
Onset
- GlucaGen IV: 45 sec (0.25- to 0.5-mg, 2-mg dose)
- GlucaGen IM: 8-10 min (1-mg dose); 12-27 min (2-mg dose)
Duration of smooth muscle relaxation
- GlucaGen IV: 9-17 min (0.25-0.5 mg-dose); 22-25 min (2-mg dose)
- GlucaGen IM: 12-27 min (1-mg dose); 21-32 min (2-mg dose)
Time of maximal glucose concentration
- GlucaGen IV: 5-20 min
- GlucaGen IM: 30 min
Distribution
Vd
- Gvoke SC: 137-2425 L
Metabolism
- IM: Degraded by the liver, kidney, and plasma
Elimination
Half-life
- Glucagen IM: 45 min
- Gvoke SC: 32 min
Administration
IV Preparation
Reconstitute by adding 1 or 10 mL of sterile diluent to a vial containing 1 or 10 units of drug, respectively, to yield solutions containing 1 mg/mL
If dose <2 mg, use only diluent provided by Mfr
If >2 mg, use SWI
Use immediately after reconstitution
Parenteral Administration
GlucaGen
- May be give IV, IM, or SC
- Administer IM or SC in upper arm, thigh, or buttocks
- Emergency assistance should be sought immediately after SC or IM administration
- IV glucose must be administered if patient fails to respond to glucagon
- Once patient responds to treatment, give fast-acting and long-acting oral carbohydrates to restore the liver glycogen and prevent recurrence of hypoglycemia
Gvoke
- SC administration only in lower abdomen, outer thigh, or outer upper arm
- Severe hypoglycemia requires the help of others to recover, instruct patient to inform those around them about glucagon and its use
- Administer as soon as possible when severe hypoglycemia is recognized
- Call for emergency assistance immediately after administering the dose
- When patient responds to treatment, give oral carbohydrates to restore the liver glycogen and prevent recurrence of hypoglycemia
- Do not attempt to reuse injection; each device contains a single dose of glucagon and cannot be reused
-
Preparation
- Do not open foil pouch until ready to administer; administer according to the printed instructions on the foil pouch label, carton, or instructions for use
- Visually inspect before administration; solution should appear clear and colorless to pale yellow and be free of particles; if the solution is discolored or contains particulate matter, do not use
Storage
GlucaGen
- Unopened package: Store at room temperatures (20-25ºC [68-77ºF]); do not freeze; protect from light
- Reconstituted vials: Use immediately; discard any unused portion
Gvoke
Store at room temperatures (20-25ºC [68-77ºF]); excursions permitted between 15-30ºC (59-86ºF)
Do not refrigerate or freeze
Store in original sealed foil pouch until time of use; do not expose to extreme temperatures
Do not use after the expiration date printed on carton and foil pouch
Images
| BRAND | FORM. | UNIT PRICE | PILL IMAGE |
|---|---|---|---|
| GlucaGen HypoKit injection - | 1 mg vial |  | |
| Baqsimi nasal - | 3 mg/actuation liquid |  | |
| Baqsimi nasal - | 3 mg/actuation liquid |  | |
| Baqsimi nasal - | 3 mg/actuation liquid |  | |
| GlucaGen Diagnostic Kit injection - | 1 mg/mL vial |  | |
| GlucaGen Diagnostic Kit injection - | 1 mg/mL vial |  | |
| Glucagon Emergency Kit (human-recomb) injection - | 1 mg vial |  |
Copyright © 2010 First DataBank, Inc.
Patient Handout
glucagon injection
GLUCAGON - INJECTION
(GLOO-ka-gon)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Glucagon, Glucagon Emergency Kit
USES: This medication is the same as your body's own glucagon, a natural substance that raises blood sugar by causing the body to release sugar stored in the liver. It is used to treat very low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) that may cause you to need help from others. To be ready ahead of time, make sure a family member or caregiver knows where you keep this medication and how to use it.Glucagon may also be used before certain X-ray procedures of the gut. It slows down movement of the stomach, intestines, and colon, which may help make the X-ray more clear.
HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist when you get this medication and each time you get a refill. Keep this medication handy in case it is needed. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.Caregivers should know the symptoms of low blood sugar (see also Precautions section) and be instructed on how to give glucagon if needed. An episode of very low blood sugar should be treated right away to prevent serious effects (such as brain damage).Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.Inject this medication into a muscle or under the skin as directed by the doctor. The dosage is based on your age. Children's dosage is also based on their weight. After giving this medication, get medical help right away.If the person is unconscious, turn the person on their side to prevent choking in case they vomit. If the person does not wake up after 15 minutes, another dose may be given, if available.When the person wakes up and is able to swallow, give them a quick sugar source (such as glucose tablets, juice). Glucagon only works for a short time, and low blood sugar may return. Keep the blood sugar level up by eating snacks such as crackers, cheese, a meat sandwich, or milk.Always call your doctor right away when an episode of very low blood sugar has happened. You may need more medical treatment, or your insulin dose and diet may need to be adjusted.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, or headache may occur. Irritation, redness, or swelling at the injection site may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: fast/pounding heartbeat.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using glucagon, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as latex used in some products), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: tumor of the pancreas (insulinoma), adrenal gland problems (such as Addison's disease, pheochromocytoma), not eating/poor eating habits, frequent low blood sugar.Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is more likely if you do not consume enough calories from food, or if you do unusually heavy exercise. Symptoms include sudden sweating, shaking, fast heartbeat, hunger, blurred vision, dizziness, or tingling hands/feet. It is a good habit to carry glucose tablets or gel to treat low blood sugar. If you don't have these reliable forms of glucose, rapidly raise your blood sugar by eating a quick source of sugar such as table sugar, honey, or candy, or drink fruit juice or non-diet soda. Tell your doctor right away about the reaction and the use of this product. To help prevent low blood sugar, eat meals on a regular schedule, and do not skip meals. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to find out what you should do if you miss a meal.Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication.It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk, but it is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
NOTES: Do not share this product with others.Attend a diabetes education program to learn more about how to manage your diabetes with medications, diet, exercise, and regular medical exams.Learn the symptoms of high and low blood sugar and how to treat low blood sugar. Check your blood sugar regularly as directed.
MISSED DOSE: Not applicable.
STORAGE: Different brands of this medication have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call 1-888-633-4298 (US) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).
Information last revised August 2021. Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Formulary
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To view formulary information first create a list of plans. Your list will be saved and can be edited at any time.
Adding plans allows you to:
- View the formulary and any restrictions for each plan.
- Manage and view all your plans together – even plans in different states.
- Compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.
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