Glucagon Rescue in People with Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus (DM), commonly referred to as diabetes, is a group of metabolic diseases with high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period. It is symptomised with frequent urination, increased hunger, and increased thirst. There are three major types of diabetes: type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes.

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All types of diabetes mellitus have something in common. Normally, the intake sugars and carbohydrates are broken down into a special sugar called glucose. Glucose acts as a fuel to the cells in the body. Besides, insulin, a hormone, is essential to take up the glucose and use it for energy. With diabetes mellitus, either the body makes insufficient insulin, it can’t use the produced insulin, or a combination of both.

Glucagon is a metabolic hormone secreted by the pancreas that raises blood glucose levels by causing the liver to rapidly convert glycogen into glucose, which is then released into the bloodstream. Glucagon rescue is the emergency injection of glucagon in case of severe diabetic hypoglycemia.

The development of the glucagon hypoglycemia rescue kit, simplifies the rescue consisting of:

  • Biosynthetic human glucagon, in a freeze dried form within a vial,
  • a sturdy syringe, pre-filled with a sterile diluting solution, and
  • a conspicuous red or orange colored plastic storage box, which includes instructions.

Glucagon Spray device, which is Intranasal glucagon is effective and noninferior and friendly user as well.

Diabetes mellitus occurs throughout the world, but is more common (especially type 2) in most developed countries. As of 2015, an estimated 415 million people have diabetes worldwide, with type 2 DM making up about 90% of the cases. This represents 8.3% of the adult population, with equal rates in both females and males.

This report provides evidence that small doses of glucagon have great utility in the management of impending hypoglycemia in children and adolescents (and possibly adults) with gastroenteritis or poor oral intake of carbohydrates. For severe insulin reactions, we continue to advocate and use the much larger recommended dosages.

Advances in Diabetes & Endocrinology

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