Glucagon

Indications:  

This is generally now agreed to be impractical in beta-blocker overdose. The dosing required  generally exceeds hospital stocks. It has positive inotropic and chronotropic effects similar to  beta adrenergic agonists. 

• Calcium channel Overdose
• B- Blocker overdose  

Formulation: 

• 1mg/1ml 

Dosage and Administration: 

• Patient must be in a monitored area
• Bolus dose of 5mg IV
• Dosage can be repeated every 5 minutes after that
• If a clinical response is observed consider an infusion at 2-5mg/hr in 5% dextrose ∙

Side Effects: 

• Nausea and vomiting
• Hyperglycaemia
• Hypokalaemia 

Pit Falls: 

• Amount of glucagon required to obtain effect will likely exceed hospital stores  rapidly
• Failure to administer adequate dosage
• This is not regarded as a first line agent and its use is superseded by high dose  euglycaemic therapy.