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How long does Baqsimi last?

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on May 16, 2025.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

Baqsimi (glucagon nasal powder) may be used to treat severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar/glucose levels) in adults and children aged 1 year and older with diabetes.

Glucagon, the medicine Baqsimi contains, is a hormone that increases blood glucose levels by stimulating the release of glucose from the liver. It also slows down digestion.

Baqsimi is a dry nasal spray that is given into one nostril for low blood sugar emergencies to people who cannot eat, have passed out, or who are having a seizure due to low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia). People do not need to sniff it up for it to work, just spraying it inside the nostril is sufficient.

Hypoglycemia needs to be treated as quickly as possible, because having low blood sugar levels for too long can cause seizures, coma, or death. Each Baqsimi device contains 1 dose of glucagon nasal powder and cannot be reused.

Baqsimi starts working approximately seven to eight minutes after administration with peak plasma levels reached in 15 to 20 minutes.

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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)
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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.

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