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Home Knowledge Center Wellness Library Glucagon Injection (GLUCAGON - INJECTION)

Glucagon Injection (GLUCAGON - INJECTION)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • diabetes
  • diagnostic imaging
  • diagnostic test
  • low blood sugar

Brand Name(s): GlucaGen

Generic Name: Glucagon

Instructions

Instructions

This medicine is given as an injection.

Read and make sure you understand the instructions for measuring dose and using syringe. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

The medicine needs to be mixed before being injected.

Follow package direction for diluting medicine with IV fluids or as instructed by your doctor or nurse.

Do not dilute the medicine until ready to use.

Do not mix this medicine with other solutions.

The liquid should be clear and colorless.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Keep medicine at room temperature. Protect from light.

Do not freeze the medicine.

Inject the medicine immediately after mixing.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Discard any remaining medicine after your dose is given.

Please ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to discard unused medicines safely.

This medicine should only be used by a person who has been trained to recognize when and how it should be used.

Only use this medicine if the patient is unable to eat, unconscious, or having a seizure. Otherwise give juice, candy or glucose tablets by mouth to treat low blood sugar.

If a patient is unconscious, turn them on their side to prevent choking.

Once fully awake and able to swallow, the patient should eat or drink to increase blood sugar levels.

If the patient does not awaken within 15 minutes of using the medicine, give a second dose. Seek immediate medical care.

Family, friends, and coworkers should all learn how to give this medicine to the patient.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all your medicines. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines.

Symptoms of low blood sugar may include nausea, shaking, sweating, cold skin, fast heartbeat, hunger, and irritability.

Check the medicine once a month, and replace it before it expires.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Cautions

It is very important that you always have this medicine with you in case you need to use it. DO NOT leave it at home.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Patients with very low blood sugar may become very confused, lose consciousness, or have seizures.

Monitor your blood sugar as instructed by your doctor.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not operate machinery or drive while on this medicine.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Always carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet showing that you are diabetic.

Please tell all your doctors and dentists that you are on this medicine before they provide care.

Do not start or stop any other medicines without first speaking to your doctor or pharmacist.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • nausea and vomiting

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • fast or irregular heart beats

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

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