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GlucaGen® HypoKit®: Common Questions About GlucaGen® HypoKit®,

HypoKit®

Your healthcare provider or diabetes care team is the best source of information about hypoglycemia, or low blood glucose, and its treatment. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have questions about hypoglycemia or GlucaGen® HypoKit®.

  1. What is GlucaGen® HypoKit®?
    GlucaGen® HypoKit® is an injection of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood glucose levels. It is used to treat severe hypoglycemic (low blood glucose) reactions, which may happen to people who take insulin.
  2. How does GlucaGen® HypoKit® work?
    GlucaGen® HypoKit® works by triggering the liver to release glucose, which raises blood glucose levels. It is injected under the skin.
  3. How should I store the GlucaGen® HypoKit®?
    GlucaGen® HypoKit® needs no refrigeration. Always have a fresh kit on hand to make sure that this potentially lifesaving treatment has not expired. GlucaGen® HypoKit® should not be used after the expiration date on the vial.
  4. How does someone know how much glucagon and water to mix?
    The GlucaGen® HypoKit® contains a vial, or bottle, with 1 mg (1 unit) of glucagon powder, as well as a disposable syringe filled with sterile water. The entire contents of the syringe is mixed with the glucagon in the vial before giving the injection. People weighing more than 55 lbs. get the full dose, less than 55 lbs. get half the 1mg dose.
  5. Does GlucaGen® HypoKit® have severe side effects?
    Severe side effects are very rare, although nausea and vomiting may occur occasionally, especially with doses above 1 mg or with a rapid injection in less than 1 minute. For a complete list of potential side effects, please refer to the prescribing information for GlucaGen® HypoKit®.
  6. My diabetes is under control. Why should I worry about hypoglycemia?
    If you take insulin to lower your blood glucose levels, your glucose levels can get too low and hypoglycemia can happen. Too much insulin can cause of hypoglycemia.
  7. What else can cause hypoglycemia?
    Other common causes of hypoglycemia include waiting too long to eat after taking insulin, not eating enough food, exercising more than usual without eating extra food, and drinking alcohol.
  8. Who should have a GlucaGen® HypoKit®?
    Anyone who takes insulin should keep a GlucaGen® HypoKit® handy. Be sure your family, friends, and co-workers can find it quickly in an emergency—and that they know how to use it.
  9. What happens after GlucaGen® HypoKit® has been used?
    Let others know that after treatment with GlucaGen® HypoKit® you should be given food with carbohydrates upon waking up, as soon as you can swallow. This is especially important in children and teenagers. Also, notify a healthcare provider as soon as possible after a severe hypoglycemic event.
  10. Which types of carbohydrates should be taken after using GlucaGen® HypoKit®?
    Two types of carbohydrates should be taken after using GlucaGen® HypoKit®:
    • A fast-acting glucose source—such as a regular soda pop or fruit juice
    • A long-acting glucose source—such as crackers and cheese or a meat sandwich.
  11. Where can I get GlucaGen® HypoKit®?
    GlucaGen® HypoKit® is available with a prescription at your local pharmacy. Ask your healthcare provider if GlucaGen® HypoKit® is a good treatment for you should you experience a severe hypoglycemic event.