What is the effective antidote for episodes of hypoglycemia?

What is the effective antidote for episodes of hypoglycemia?

• A. Glucagon
• B. Epinephrine
• C. Atropine
• D. Naloxone

Answer: (A)

Glucagon is the immediate treatment for severe hypoglycemia when a person cannot safely take oral carbohydrates. It works by stimulating the liver to break down stored glycogen into glucose, rapidly raising blood sugar within minutes. This rescue action is especially important if the patient is unconscious or vomiting or if IV access isn’t available to give IV dextose. The typical dose is 0.5 to 1 mg given by intramuscular or subcutaneous injection. If the patient can swallow and is conscious, oral glucose or a sugary beverage can also correct low blood sugar. Other options listed are used for different emergencies: epinephrine for anaphylaxis or bronchospasm, atropine for bradycardia or certain poisonings, and naloxone for opioid overdose.

Glucagon is the immediate treatment for severe hypoglycemia when a person cannot safely take oral carbohydrates. It works by stimulating the liver to break down stored glycogen into glucose, rapidly raising blood sugar within minutes. This rescue action is especially important if the patient is unconscious or vomiting or if IV access isn’t available to give IV dextose. The typical dose is 0.5 to 1 mg given by intramuscular or subcutaneous injection. If the patient can swallow and is conscious, oral glucose or a sugary beverage can also correct low blood sugar. Other options listed are used for different emergencies: epinephrine for anaphylaxis or bronchospasm, atropine for bradycardia or certain poisonings, and naloxone for opioid overdose.