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Glucagon for refractory asthma exacerbation.
Am J Emerg Med. 2017 Jan;35(1):144-145
Authors: Cavallari JM, Jawaro TS, Awad NI, Bridgeman PJ
Abstract
Glucagon, a hormone secreted by pancreatic alpha cells, causes bronchial smooth muscle relaxation by activating the synthesis of cyclic adenosine monophosphate. It was studied in the 1980s and 1990s as a treatment option for the management of asthma but has since not been evaluated. Data to support its use are limited, but it may serve as a last-line agent for refractory asthma exacerbation. Here we describe 4 cases in which intravenous glucagon was used to manage severe, refractory asthma exacerbation in the emergency department.
PMID: 27742523 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]