Glucagon: Treating hypoglycemia without the carbs?

This study investigated the effects of glucagon injection on insulin-induced hypoglycemia. The study concluded that glucagon restored blood sugars levels after mild hypoglycemia.

Hypoglycemia (very low blood sugar levels) is one of the major barriers of good blood sugar control. It is associated with a range of unpleasant symptoms including, hunger, sweating, confusion as well as difficulties in thinking. Mild hypoglycemia is common, and simple carbohydrates (such as those found in juice or candy) can help to restore blood sugar levels. However, if patients have to take in extra calories in the form of carbohydrates frequently this could lead to weight gain.

Glucagon is a hormone that is naturally produced by the body. Glucagon has the opposite effect of insulin, and increases blood sugar levels. Glucagon could be a non-caloric method for treating mild hypoglycemia.

The current study investigated the effects of various doses of glucagon injections on insulin-induced hypoglycemia. The study included 8 patients with type 1 diabetes, using insulin pumps. During each of four sessions, patients were given a dose of insulin to cause mild hypoglycemia. Patients then received glucagon at one of three doses (100, 200 or 300 µg) or saline (salt and water solution). Blood sugar levels were monitored. 

Blood sugar levels were significantly higher after the glucagon injections, 6.1 mmol/l following the 100 µg dose, 7.9 mmol/l at the 200 µg dose and 8.7 mmol/l at the 300 µg dose. Blood sugar levels were 3.6 mmol/l following the saline injection. Normal blood sugar levels were achieved in 6 of the 8 patients. It took about 18 minutes for this to happen with the 100 µg dose, 19 minutes for the 200 µg dose and 16 minutes for the 300 µg dose. 

Rebound hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) was observed in 1 patient following the 100 µg dose, 6 patients after the 200 µg dose, and 7 patients after the 300 µg dose.

This study concluded that a low-dose of glucagon could effectively restore blood sugar levels after hypoglycema.