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Glucagon (Into the nose)

Glucagon (GLOO-ka-gon)

Treats severe low blood sugar.

Brand Name(s):

Baqsimi

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to glucagon, or if you have a tumor in the adrenal gland on top of you kidney (pheochromocytoma), or a tumor in your pancreas (insulinoma).

How to Use This Medicine:

Powder

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
  • Make sure your caregiver or family member knows where you keep your Baqsimi™ and that they know how to use it the right way before you need their help.
  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
  • This medicine is for use only in the nose. Do not get any of it in your eyes or on your skin. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
  • Powder:
    • Each intranasal device contain only one dose of glucagon. Do not prime or test the device.
    • Remove the shrink wrap by pulling on the red stripe. Open the lid and remove the nasal device from the tube.
    • Hold the nasal device between your fingers and thumb.
    • Gently insert the tip of the device into one nostril, until fingers touch the outside of the nose.
    • Press the plunger firmly to give the dose. The dose does not need to be inhaled.
    • Remove the nasal device from the nose. After giving the dose, call for emergency medical help right away.
    • If the patient does not respond after 15 minutes, another dose may be given.
    • Drink a fast-acting source of sugar such as a regular soft drink or fruit juice, and eat a snack (such as crackers with cheese or peanut butter) as soon as the patient is able to swallow.
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not using it. Store at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Keep Baqsimi™ device in the shrink wrapped tube until ready to use. Throw away Baqsimi™ device and tube after use.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Some medicines can affect how glucagon works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
    • Indomethacin
    • Beta-blocker
    • Blood thinner (including warfarin)

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, adrenal gland problems, or a pancreas disorder. Also, tell your doctor if you have not have taken food or water for a long time.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
  • Fast or slow heartbeat
  • Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting
  • Shaking, sweating

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Headache
  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088


Last Updated: 9/6/2024
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