glucagon

noun

glu·​ca·​gon ˈglü-kə-ˌgän 

: a protein hormone that is produced especially by the islets of Langerhans and that promotes an increase in the sugar content of the blood by increasing the rate of glycogen breakdown in the liver

Examples of glucagon in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Normal blood glucagon levels are less than 50 picograms per milliliter (pg/mL).6 How Does Glucagon Work? —Melissa Nieves, Verywell Health, 24 Sep. 2024

The insulin and glucagon in your body counteract each other to maintain a stable blood sugar level.9 In individuals without diabetes, high blood sugar promotes insulin release to lower blood sugar levels. —Melissa Nieves, Verywell Health, 24 Sep. 2024

The device will infuse both insulin and glucagon by following a pattern that mimics the unique electrical characteristics of alpha and beta cells. —IEEE Spectrum, 28 Dec. 2010

So, by simultaneously boosting your insulin and lowering your glucagon, GLP-1 (and, by extension, Ozempic) lowers your blood sugar in two different ways. —Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 19 Sep. 2023

Word History

Etymology

gluc- + -agon (perhaps from Greek agōn, present participle of agein to lead, drive) — more at agent

First Known Use

1923, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

glucagon

noun

glu·​ca·​gon ˈglü-kə-ˌgän 

: a protein hormone that is produced especially by the pancreatic islets of Langerhans and that promotes an increase in the sugar content of the blood by increasing the rate of breakdown of glycogen in the liver

called also hyperglycemic factor, hyperglycemic-glycogenolytic factor