Nasal glucagon (Baqsimi) is a single-use, ready-to-use 3 mg dry-powder device for severe hypoglycemia in patients age 4 and older. Key teaching: (1) do not test or prime the device — priming wastes the only dose, (2) insert the tip into one nostril until the fingers touch the outside of the nose and push the plunger all the way in, (3) the patient does not need to inhale because the powder absorbs through the nasal mucosa, so it works even in unconscious patients, (4) place the patient in the recovery position and call 911, (5) store at room temperature in the sealed shrink-wrapped tube; once the tube is opened the device must be used or discarded as the powder absorbs moisture, but unopened the device is stable until the printed expiration. The drug is not refrigerated.
In-depth explanation
Baqsimi removes the two biggest barriers of the injectable kit: reconstitution and the need for an awake/cooperative patient. The mucosal route does not require inhalation, so a sneezing or unconscious patient still gets the dose.
For study reference only. Always follow current clinical guidelines and your institution’s protocols.