Glucagon: Comprehensive Research Guide

Overview

Glucagon is a 29-amino acid peptide hormone produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas. It acts as a counter-regulatory hormone to insulin, raising blood glucose levels through glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis. It is essential for maintaining blood glucose homeostasis.

Mechanism of Action

Glucose Elevation

• **Glycogen Breakdown': Promotes glycogenolysis in liver
• **Gluconeogenesis': Stimulates glucose production
• **Blood Glucose': Raises blood glucose levels
• **Counter-Regulatory': Opposes insulin action

Metabolic Effects

• **Fat Breakdown': Promotes lipolysis
• **Ketone Production': May increase ketone production
• **Energy Mobilization': Mobilizes energy stores

Research Applications

Medical Applications

• **Hypoglycemia': Emergency treatment for severe hypoglycemia
• **Beta Blocker Overdose': Treatment of beta blocker overdose
• **Diagnostic': Used in diagnostic tests

Research

• **Glucose Metabolism': Research into glucose regulation
• **Diabetes': Research into diabetes mechanisms
• **Metabolic Disorders': Research into metabolic conditions

Dosage

• **Emergency': 1 mg (subcutaneous, intramuscular, or intravenous)
• **Pediatric': 0.5 mg for children
• **Administration': Various routes available
• **Onset': Rapid onset of action

Side Effects

• **Nausea': Common nausea
• **Vomiting': Possible vomiting
• **Hyperglycemia': High blood sugar (expected effect)
• **GI Effects': Possible GI effects

Storage

• **Temperature': 2-8°C (refrigerated)
• **Light': Protect from light
• **Stability': Relatively stable

This information is for research and educational purposes only. Glucagon is a prescription medication.