When referring to its therapeutic, injectable form, glucagon is commonly known by its brand names GlucaGen and Gvoke. While glucagon itself is a naturally occurring hormone in the body, these brand names represent specific drug formulations used for medical purposes.
Understanding Glucagon and Its Forms
Glucagon is a vital hormone produced by the pancreas. Its primary role is to counteract the effects of insulin by raising blood glucose levels when they drop too low. This makes it crucial in maintaining the body's energy balance.
Key Facts about Glucagon:
- Natural Hormone: Glucagon is synthesized and released by the alpha cells of the pancreas.
- Function: It signals the liver to convert stored glycogen into glucose and release it into the bloodstream. This process is called glycogenolysis.
- Medical Use: In a medical context, synthetic glucagon is used as an emergency treatment for severe hypoglycemia (very low blood sugar), particularly in individuals with diabetes who may be unconscious or unable to take oral glucose.
Therapeutic Brand Names: GlucaGen and Gvoke
For its use as an injectable medication, glucagon is available under specific brand names. These brand-name drugs provide a convenient and effective way to administer glucagon in emergency situations.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Brand Names | GlucaGen and Gvoke are two prominent brand names for the injection form of glucagon. |
| Formulation | These products contain glucagon as their active ingredient, formulated for rapid absorption when injected. |
| Purpose | They are specifically designed for the emergency treatment of severe low blood sugar episodes. |
| Generic Forms | A generic drug is an exact copy of the active drug in a brand-name medication. Generic versions of glucagon are considered as safe and effective as their brand-name counterparts and often come at a lower cost. |
These brand names are widely recognized in the medical community and among patients who rely on glucagon for managing diabetic emergencies. The availability of both brand and generic forms helps ensure access to this essential medication.
How Glucagon Injections Work
When a person experiences severe hypoglycemia, their brain and body may not receive enough glucose to function properly, leading to symptoms like confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness. Administering an injection of GlucaGen or Gvoke can quickly raise blood sugar levels:
- Rapid Action: Once injected (typically into a muscle, like the thigh), the synthetic glucagon quickly enters the bloodstream.
- Liver Stimulation: It travels to the liver, prompting it to release its stored glucose reserves.
- Blood Sugar Increase: Within minutes, the blood glucose levels begin to rise, helping to alleviate the symptoms of hypoglycemia.
It's important for individuals at risk of severe hypoglycemia, and their caregivers, to know how and when to use these life-saving medications. For more detailed information on glucagon and its uses, refer to reputable health organizations like the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).
