How does Baqsimi work?
Baqsimi works by activating glucagon receptors in the liver, which stimulates the breakdown of glycogen and the release of glucose from the liver into the bloodstream. It stimulates the liver to produce more glucose from amino acid molecules and reduces how much glucose the liver needs to function, so that as much glucose as possible can be released into the bloodstream. Baqsimi also slows down digestion and acts on adipose (fat) tissue to increase the breakdown of fat stores.
Baqsimi is a dry powder form of synthetic glucagon that is identical to naturally occurring glucagon that is produced by alpha cells in the pancreas. It is used to treat severe hypoglycemia (extremely low blood sugar levels) in adults and children aged 1 year and older with diabetes. Baqsimi is designed for use in the nose only.
References
- Baqsimi Prescribing Information. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2025/210134s004lbl.pdf
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When should you use glucagon?
Glucagon is usually given in an emergency to people with insulin-dependent diabetes who develop very low blood sugar levels and pass out or are unable to take some form of sugar by mouth. Glucagon injection or nasal powder (Baqsimi) increases low blood sugar levels back to normal. Continue reading
What are the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia?
Low blood sugar happens in people when the level of sugar in their blood gets too low. Signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) include:
- feeling hungry
- feeling nervous or worried
- trembling or shaky feeling
- sweating
- dizziness or light-headedness
- sleepiness
- confusion
- passing out (if low blood sugar is left untreated)
How long does Baqsimi last?
One dose of Baqsimi lasts for at least 90 minutes. Baqsimi starts working within 7 to 8 minutes of administration, with peak levels being reached 30 minutes after administration.
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Drug information
- Baqsimi Information for Consumers
- Baqsimi prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Baqsimi (detailed)
- Baqsimi user reviews (1)
Related support groups
- Baqsimi (7 questions, 3 members)
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- Diabetes, Type 1 (81 questions, 143 members)