Baqsimi rescue: nasal glucagon does not need to be inhaled

The current FDA label indicates Baqsimi for severe hypoglycemia in people with diabetes ages one year and above. Older label copies on the web still say four years and above. This lesson uses the 2025 FDA label rather than the older age statement.

Each device contains one 3 mg dose and is used once. Insert the tip into one nostril and press the plunger completely. The dose does not need to be inhaled, which matters when the person cannot cooperate. Do not test the device before use or attempt to reuse an emptied device.

The label tells the caregiver to call emergency assistance immediately after administration. A successful spray does not replace assessment of severe hypoglycemia. If there is no response after 15 minutes, an additional 3 mg dose using a new device may be given while help is on the way.

If the patient is unconscious, turn them on their side as the instructions describe because vomiting can occur. Do not make swallowing a prerequisite for rescue. Oral carbohydrates belong after the patient responds and can safely take them, not as forced treatment for an unresponsive person.

Glucagon raises glucose through hepatic glycogen. The label warns that people with depleted hepatic glycogen, including starvation, adrenal insufficiency or chronic hypoglycemia, may not respond adequately and should be treated with glucose. Rescue failure should not be interpreted as permission to delay emergency care.

Baqsimi is contraindicated in pheochromocytoma, insulinoma and known hypersensitivity to glucagon or its ingredients. These product facts remain part of medicine selection even though the immediate counseling sequence is deliberately short.

Once the patient responds, oral carbohydrates help restore glycogen and reduce recurrence. The cause of the event and the ongoing diabetes regimen still need review. A rescue prescription does not make repeated severe hypoglycemia acceptable or establish that a maintenance dose is safe.

Use teach-back with the caregiver: where the device is kept, one nostril, no inhalation requirement, emergency call, new device for a repeat dose, and carbohydrates after response. This tests a usable sequence rather than recognition of the word glucagon alone.

Try it before reading the answer

Write the key fact, decision and safety check first. These are original practice exercises, not recalled exam items.

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