Glucagon
Overview
A 29-amino acid peptide hormone produced by alpha cells of the pancreatic islets of Langerhans. Glucagon acts primarily on hepatocytes via the glucagon receptor (GCGR), a G-protein-coupled receptor that activates adenylyl cyclase, increasing cAMP and triggering glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis to raise blood glucose.
Mechanism of Action
It also relaxes smooth muscle of the GI tract and has positive inotropic and chronotropic cardiac effects..
Research Summary & Key Findings
FDA-approved for treatment of severe hypoglycemia and as a diagnostic aid for radiologic examination of the GI tract. Newer formulations include nasal glucagon (Baqsimi, 2019) and ready-to-use liquid glucagon (Gvoke, 2019), improving ease of emergency administration. Glucagon receptor antagonists are under investigation for type 2 diabetes.
Clinical Status
Glucagon has received FDA approval and is available for clinical use under appropriate medical supervision. Consult a qualified healthcare provider for prescribing information.
Administration Routes
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