What is glucagon primarily used for?

Glucagon is primarily used to treat low blood sugar, particularly when an individual is unconscious or unable to consume oral glucose. It is a hormone that stimulates the liver to convert glycogen into glucose and release it into the bloodstream, thereby raising blood glucose levels. This makes it especially critical for emergency situations involving severe hypoglycemia, where individuals may be unable to respond or take oral glucose due to their condition.

The effectiveness of glucagon in increasing blood sugar levels makes it an essential medication for individuals with diabetes who experience episodes of very low blood sugar, particularly when they are unable to eat or drink. While it does have other uses in medical situations—such as assisting in certain diagnostic tests—it is not indicated for lowering high blood sugar, managing cholesterol, or treating anxiety, which are the indications for other types of medications.