Sunday, April 24, 2011

Q: Glucagon bypass the beta-adrenergic receptor site and is a good alternative therapy for profound beta-blocker intoxications. Glucagon increases heart rate and myocardial contractility, and improves atrioventricular conduction. What is the dose of Glucagon in B-blocer overdose?



Answer: The doses of glucagon required to reverse severe beta-blockade are 50 micrograms/kg iv loading dose, followed by a continuous infusion of 1-15 mg/h, titrated to patient response.

Glucagon has shown similar benefit but to lesser extent in Calcium-channel blockers overdose.