Acute hyperkalemia treatment.

Dear Ask The Doctor: Why isn't glucagon used as a treatment for hyperkalemia? Dextrose and insulin are, and it seems that you're essentially doing the same thing by releasing glycogen stores with glucagon.

Dear Brandon: Unfortunately even though glucagon causes an increase in the sugar levels, it also impairs the potassium entry into the cells whereas insulin and parental glucose enhances potassium entry into cells.