Health Topics

Storage:

• Store glucagon at controlled room temperature (68-77^o).
• Never leave glucagon in direct sunlight.
• Refer to package insert for further instructions.  

Expiration date:

• Check the manufacturer’s expiration date on the kit or on the vial that contains the glucagon powder at the time of purchase. Write the expiration date of your kit on your calendar.
• When your kit expires, practice mixing and drawing up glucagon before throwing it away. 

After mixing, solution should be clear and used immediately.  Discard any unused portion and reorder kit.

Here are step-by-step directions for using the Glucagon Emergency Kit.  It is important that you and your family members or friends read these instructions carefully.

1. Remove the flip-off seal from the bottle of glucagon. 
2. Remove the needle protector from the syringe, and inject the entire contents of the syringe into the bottle of glucagon. 
3. Remove the syringe and gently shake bottle until liquid is clear. 
4. Using the same syringe, draw the glucagon into the syringe to the prescribed dose. 
5. Insert the needle into your child's thigh and inject the entire contents of the syringe. Withdraw the needle from the skin. Turn your child onto his or her side, in case of nausea and vomiting. 
6. Call 911. 
7. When the child awakens and can swallow, encourage the child to take small sips of a carbohydrate-containing fluid (fruit juice or regular soft drink).  If tolerated, follow with 15 grams of carbohydrate and a fat-containing food (such as cheese and crackers). 
8. Notify your diabetes healthcare provider that your child had a severe low blood glucose before the next insulin dose.