Glucagon is a hormone that is produced in the pancreas. Glucagon raises your blood
glucose level, so it has the opposite effect to insulin. Your body uses glucagon during prolonged periods
without food,
such as overnight. If you have Type 2 diabetes, you will continue to produce glucagon
as long as you are able to produce some insulin. However, if you reach the stage
where you are unable to produce your own insulin, you will also lose your ability
to produce glucagon.
If your blood glucose level falls too low, usually under 4mmol/L, you may develop
hypoglycaemia. People with Type 2 diabetes who take certain types of medicine (such
as sulphonyureas) or are having insulin therapy to control their condition, are
at risk of hypoglycaemia. If hypoglycaemia is left untreated, you may become unconscious
and need a glucagon injection. Very few people with Type 2 diabetes get hypoglycaemia
that is serious enough to need a glucagon injection.
Glucagon injections
Glucagon can be given as an injection in the same way as insulin. Glucagon powder
is packaged with a syringe and water. The powder is dissolved in the water before
injecting. You should follow the instructions and any directions from your healthcare
team, but it is generally recommended that half the dose is given first, and to
wait five minutes to see whether the other half is needed. The second dose can sometimes
cause side effects, such as headaches and nausea. However, if there is no improvement
after the first dose, the second dose should be given. Your diabetes healthcare
team will be able to show you (and those close to you) how to inject glucagon. If
you have a hypoglycaemic episode, following the tips below will help to prepare
you and those closest to you, in case you need a glucagon injection.
An ambulance should be called immediately if someone with diabetes is found unconscious.
If you are having
insulin therapy and are prone to hypoglycaemia you should carry a glucagon
injection pack with you. Ask your doctor to prescribe one for you.
Make sure a family member or someone close to you knows how to give you a glucagon
injection.
Keep an eye on the expiry date of the injection pack. An out of date pack can be
used to practice how to dissolve the powder and draw the solution into the syringe
but should not be injected.
If you are planning to be more active than usual (such as going on an activity-based
holiday), take along a glucagon injection. Hypoglycaemia is more likely to happen
when you have an unusual burst of energy. You should also make those travelling
with you aware of your situation.