Glucagon (Low Blood Sugar)

Name: Glucagon (Low Blood Sugar)

What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Glucagon?

  • If you have an allergy to glucagon (low blood sugar) or any part of this medicine.
  • If you are allergic to any drugs like this one, any other drugs, foods, or other substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had, like rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other signs.
  • If you have an adrenal gland tumor called pheochromocytoma.
  • If you have certain types of pancreas tumors (glucagonoma, insulinoma).
  • If you take other drugs called anticholinergics, like ipratropium or oxybutynin. Ask your doctor if you are not sure if any of your drugs are anticholinergic.

This is not a list of all drugs or health problems that interact with glucagon.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take this medicine with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.

What are some things I need to know or do while I take Glucagon?

  • Tell all of your health care providers that you take glucagon. This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks of using this medicine while you are pregnant.
  • Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about any risks to your baby.
  • Check your blood sugar as you have been told by your doctor.

How is this medicine (Glucagon) best taken?

Use glucagon as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.

  • It is given as a shot into a muscle, vein, or into the fatty part of the skin.
  • Your doctor may teach you how to give the shot.
  • Follow how to use as you have been told by the doctor or read the package insert.
  • Read how to use before an emergency happens.
  • Make sure that your family members, coworkers, or friends know how and when to give the shot.
  • Do not mix this medicine until you are ready to use it.
  • Throw away any part not used after use.
  • Get medical help right away after using glucagon.
  • Do not use if the solution is cloudy, leaking, or has particles.
  • Do not use if solution changes color.
  • Throw away needles in a needle/sharp disposal box. Do not reuse needles or other items. When the box is full, follow all local rules for getting rid of it. Talk with a doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

  • This medicine is taken on an as needed basis. Do not take more often than told by the doctor.

What are some other side effects of Glucagon?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

  • Upset stomach or throwing up.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

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