Drug interactions
Glucagon intranasal + Timolol
Severity: Minor
Glucagon intranasal and Timolol: minor interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
In patients on beta-blockers, glucagon may cause a transient rise in pulse and blood pressure because of unopposed alpha-adrenergic effects of released catecholamines. Beta-blockade does not abolish glucagon's hyperglycemic effect, but the cardiovascular effects can be noticeable.
What this interaction means in plain words
Glucagon intranasal and Timolol have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Glucagon-induced catecholamine release acting on unblocked adrenergic receptors, with altered cardiovascular response in beta-blocked patients.
What to do
Monitor pulse and blood pressure after glucagon use in patients taking timolol. Treat severe hypoglycemia as needed because the cardiovascular effect is short-lived.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Timolol
- Acebutolol + Timolol Major
- Albuterol + Timolol Major
- Aldesleukin + Timolol Major
- Amifostine + Timolol Major
- Amiodarone + Timolol Major
- Arformoterol + Timolol Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Glucagon intranasal with Timolol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Glucagon intranasal and Timolol have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. In patients on beta-blockers, glucagon may cause a transient rise in pulse and blood pressure because of unopposed alpha-adrenergic effects of released catecholamines. Beta-blockade does not abolish glucagon's hyperglycemic effect, but the cardiovascular effects can be noticeable.
How serious is the interaction between Glucagon intranasal and Timolol?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor pulse and blood pressure after glucagon use in patients taking timolol. Treat severe hypoglycemia as needed because the cardiovascular effect is short-lived.
What other medicines interact with Timolol?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Timolol with, for example, Acebutolol, Albuterol, Aldesleukin. The full list is on the Timolol page.
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