Glucagon is a hormone that is naturally produced by your pancreas and plays a vital role in regulating blood sugar levels. Unlike most diabetes medications, Glucagon works in the opposite way:
- Function: Glucagon raises blood sugar levels. It does this by signaling your liver to release stored glucose back into your bloodstream.
- Uses: Glucagon is primarily used to treat severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) which can be life-threatening. People with diabetes, especially those taking insulin or certain medications, are at risk of hypoglycemia.
- Dosage and Administration: Glucagon comes as a pre-mixed injectable solution and is typically administered by someone else (family member, caregiver) during a hypoglycemic episode.
Important to Remember:
- Glucagon is a prescription medication and requires training for proper administration.
- If you have diabetes and are at risk of hypoglycemia, talk to your doctor about getting a Glucagon emergency kit and proper training on its use.
- Glucagon is not a substitute for regular diabetes management practices like medication, diet, and exercise.
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