Glucagon and barium enema examinations: a controlled clinical trial.

In a double-blind crossover clinical trial, 10 healthy volunteers received placebo and 2 mg glucagon intramuscularly preceding barium enema examination on separate days. In addition, 50 patients were given either placebo or 2 mg glucagon prior to barium enema examination in a double-blind study. The results of 38 variables determined on each study population were similar. When glucagon was given, both the patients and examiners noted significantly less discomfort and more bowel relaxation. There were no significant changes in pulse, blood pressure, or electrocardiogram. Adverse reactions did not occur frequently enough to allow confident comparison of placebo and glucagon. It is concluded that the use of glucagon can provide a more comfortable barium examination with acceptable safety.