Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What is the primary function of glucagon?

1. Increase heart rate

2. Stimulate liver to convert glycogen into glucose

3. Lower blood pressure

4. Enhance digestion

The correct answer is: Stimulate liver to convert glycogen into glucose

The primary function of glucagon is to stimulate the liver to convert glycogen, which is stored energy, into glucose. This process is known as glycogenolysis. When the body experiences low blood sugar levels, glucagon is released from the pancreas to ensure that glucose is made available to meet the body's energy needs. By promoting the conversion of glycogen to glucose, glucagon plays a crucial role in maintaining blood sugar levels, particularly during fasting or between meals. Understanding glucagon's role is essential in the context of managing conditions such as diabetes, where glucose regulation is critical. In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect glucagon’s primary function: increasing heart rate is more associated with the effects of adrenaline; lowering blood pressure pertains to different regulatory mechanisms involving other hormones; and enhancing digestion relates to the actions of hormones like insulin and gastrin, rather than glucagon.