EFFECT OF GLUCAGON ON PERIPHERAL UTILIZATION OF GLUCOSE IN MAN*

Abstract

Peripheral glucose uptake in normal human subjects during glucagon-induced hyperglycemia was compared with peripheral uptakes during similar hyperglycemias produced (a) by intravenous glucose alone, and (b) by glucose ingested after subcutaneous injection of epinephrine. Peripheral capillary-venous differences served as indices of glucose uptake by peripheral cells. Glucagon proved to have no inhibitory effect on peripheral glucose uptake and may have enhanced entry of glucose into cells. Epinephrine injection was followed by inhibition of peripheral glucose uptake. It is concluded that glucagon can no longer be regarded as an "insulin antagonist"; indeed, its action seems synergistic with that of insulin.