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Glucagon Unit Converter
Glucagon is a key peptide hormone produced by the alpha cells of the pancreatic islets. Its main physiological role is to counteract the effects of insulin by raising blood glucose levels through glycogenolysis (breakdown of glycogen) and gluconeogenesis (a process that creates new glucose) in the liver.
Clinically, serum Glucagon levels are measured primarily to diagnose Glucagonoma, a rare neuroendocrine tumor. Levels are also monitored in relation to severe, refractory hypoglycemia. Because concentrations are very low, results are typically reported in picograms per milliliter (pg/mL) or picomoles per liter (pmol/L).
SI Units
RecommendedPicomoles per liter (Standard International).
Conventional Units
Clinical Context
Fasting Reference Range: Normal fasting Glucagon levels are generally < 150 pg/mL (< 43.1 pmol/L).
In Glucagonoma, Glucagon levels are often highly elevated, typically > 500 pg/mL. Because the hormone is highly unstable, special handling (collection on ice, rapid processing) is essential for accurate results. The conversion factor relies on MW 3483 g/mol: 1 pg/mL ≈ 0.287 pmol/L.
Clinical References
How to Use This Calculator
Follow these steps to get accurate clinical conversions instantly.
Enter Values
Input your laboratory results into the corresponding unit field (e.g., pg/mL). You can use either dot or comma decimals.
Automatic Conversion
The calculator works in real-time. As you type in one field, all other units (like pmol/L) are instantly updated.
Verify Units
Check the SI Units section. pmol/L is the international standard for peptide hormones.
Reset
Use the Clear button to reset all fields before starting a new calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
Yes. 1 pg/mL is exactly equal to 1 ng/L.
Glucagon is a peptide hormone that degrades quickly. Samples must often be collected on ice and sent quickly to the lab with a protease inhibitor.