[The effect of glucagon on serum electrolyte concentrations in man]

Intravenous application of 1 mg glucagon causes a significant decrease of the magnesium, calcium, and phosphate concentrations in the serum. Concerning the potassium level there is a biphasic change of concentration. Initially a significant increase of the potassium concentration is to be measured which transgresses into a longer phase of decrease of concentration. The possible causes of these changes of electrolytes after application of glucagon are discussed and it is referred to the possible clinical importance. In longer therapeutic application of glucagon a control of the serum parameters of the electrolytes metabolism appears indicated.