Glucagon is indicated as a treatment for severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) which may occur in patients with diabetes mellitus. Because patients with type 1 diabetes may have less of an increase in blood glucose levels compared with a stable type 2 patient, supplementary carbohydrate should be given as soon as possible, especially to a pediatric patient. See package insert for complete information.

General Instructions for Use:
• The diluent is provided for use only in the preparation of glucagon for parenteral injection and for no other use.
• Glucagon should not be used at concentrations greater than 1 mg/mL.
• Reconstituted glucagon should be used immediately. Discard any unused portion.
• Reconstituted glucagon solutions should be used only if they are clear and of a water-like consistency.
• Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration. See package insert for complete information.

Side effects may include nausea and vomiting. These reactions may also occur with hypoglycemia. Generalized allergic reactions have been reported (see WARNINGS). In a three month controlled study of 75 volunteers comparing animal-sourced glucagon with glucagon manufactured through rDNA technology, no glucagon-specific antibodies were detected in either treatment group.

Glucagon is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to it or in patients with known pheochromocytoma.

Glucagon is effective in treating hypoglycemia only if sufficient liver glycogen is present. Because glucagon is of little or no help in states of starvation, adrenal insufficiency, or chronic hypoglycemia, hypoglycemia in these conditions should be treated with glucose. See package insert for complete information.