How is glucagon administered in emergencies?

Glucagon is specifically designed to treat severe hypoglycemia, which is a critical condition that can result from excessively low blood sugar levels. In emergencies where a person is unable to ingest food or carbohydrates (for instance, if they are unconscious or unable to swallow), glucagon is administered as an injection. This method allows the medication to quickly enter the bloodstream, providing rapid relief from hypoglycemia as it stimulates the liver to release stored glucose.

Administering glucagon orally is not effective because individuals experiencing severe hypoglycemia may not be conscious or capable of swallowing, which would result in the medication not being absorbed. Since glucagon needs to act swiftly in emergency situations, it is not typically given as a nasal spray, and while intravenous administration is a possible route in some medical settings, the standard practice in emergency situations, especially for non-medical personnel or bystanders, is to use an intramuscular or subcutaneous injection. This ensures that the medication is delivered effectively and promptly during a critical episode.