Effect of glucagon infusion on some plasma metabolites and hormones in obese children.

The metabolic and hormonal effects of glucagon infusion (6 micrograms/kg/h) for three hours were studied in obese children. Glucagon caused a sustained hyperglycaemia and hyperinsulinaemia and a lower than normal (non-obese) growth hormone response. Plasma triglycerides, cholesterol, glycerol and the majority of the free amino acids showed a significant decrease in comparison with the controls, while free fatty acids showed a moderate decrease. Glucagon administration revealed some hormonal and metabolic abnormalities of obesity. The effect of glucagon-induced insulin secretion and the action of pharmacologic doses of glucagon have, however, to be considered in the interpretation of the metabolic effect of glucagon.