Diabetes: How to Give Glucagon
Overview
People with diabetes sometimes get very low blood glucose (sugar). If they are unconscious, they need glucagon right away.
Glucagon is a hormone that raises blood glucose quickly. It can be given as a shot or as a powder that's sprayed into the nose.
If someone close to you has diabetes, you may need to give them the glucagon shot or nose spray during a low blood glucose emergency.
Learn the steps for how to give glucagon either as a shot or a nose spray. Keep the instructions with the medicine. Review the steps often, and check the expiration date on the glucagon medicine.
Giving the shot
A glucagon kit has a syringe that contains liquid. The kit also has a bottle that contains the medicine, which is a powder.
Follow the instructions in the kit to mix the powder and the liquid. Put this mixture back into the syringe. Follow the directions on the package for how much medicine to give.
Giving the nasal spray
Glucagon nasal spray is absorbed through the membranes in the nose. It doesn't have to be inhaled. It will work even if the person getting the medicine has a cold. Follow the directions with the device.
Credits
Adaptation Date: 05/24/2024
Adapted By: Alberta Health Services
Adaptation Reviewed By: Alberta Health Services
Adaptation Date: 05/24/2024
Adapted By: Alberta Health Services
Adaptation Reviewed By: Alberta Health Services