Glucagon Stimulation Test

What do I need to do before the test?

• You must have nothing to eat from midnight the night before your test. You may drink plain water freely.
• If you take steroids (hydrocortisone or dexamethasone) please do not take any after your lunch time dose the day before your test.
• If you are having a course of radiotherapy please let us know so that we can re-arrange the test for when you have completed your treatment.

What does the test involve?

• A blood sample will be taken and you will then be given an injection of glucagon. The glucagon acts as a stimulus to the pituitary gland and should cause cortisol and growth hormone to be released.
• Your blood will then be taken at intervals over the next three hours.
• After the last blood sample you will be free to go.

How long will the test take?

• The test will take approximately four hours to complete.

Side-effects

• Some people feel nauseous during the test but this will soon be resolved once you eat or drink. 
• We do not have facilities to provide food and drink so bring something with you for during the day.
• The results of the test will be reviewed by your doctor and discussed with you at your next appointment.