How to Give Glucagon

If there is an emergency...

• It is okay if you do not have a sharps container, soap and water or hand sanitizer. Your child’s health and safety is most important.
• ou might not have time to clean your child’s skin before giving the glucagon. This is okay. Use an alcohol wipe to clean the top of the glucagon bottle before giving the glucagon.
• You can give glucagon through your child's clothing.

What is glucagon?

Glucagon is a medication used to treat hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in children who have diabetes. Glucagon is given through an injection.

When should I give glucagon?

• If your child has low blood sugar AND takes insulin to manage his diabetes
• If your child cannot eat food by mouth
• If your child is having a seizure

Which supplies will I need?

• The glucagon kit
• A sharps container, if possible
• Soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, if possible

How do I give glucagon?

1. Open the glucagon kit. Use the alcohol wipe to clean the top of the glucagon bottle. You will see the glucagon powder in the bottle.
2. Take the cap off the syringe (needle). You will see a clear liquid inside the syringe.
3. Insert the needle into the glucagon bottle. Press down on the plunger to inject the liquid into the bottle. Leave the needle in the bottle.
4. Turn the bottle upright. Carefully roll the bottle between your hands to mix the liquid and the powder. The mixture will be clear and watery when it is properly mixed.
5. Remove the needle from the bottle. Inject the glucagon into your child’s thigh, upper arm or buttock. Count to 3 before removing the needle.
6. Turn your child on their side. This can help prevent choking if they vomit.
7. After you give glucagon, call 911 if there is an emergency. If there IS NOT an emergency, call Pediatric Endocrinology at 617-726-2909 for next steps.
8. Throw the needle away in a sharps container, if possible. If not, replace the cap on the needle. Throw it away in a sharps container when you find one.

What should I do after I give glucagon?

If there IS an emergency, call 911.

If there IS NOT an emergency, call Pediatric Endocrinology at 617-726-2909 for next steps.

Rev. 2/2018. This webpage is intended to provide health information so that you can be better informed. It is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to treatment of any medical conditions.