What to do in case of severe hypoglycaemia?

It is important to react firmly and quickly when the blood sugar level is too low. Fortunately, severe hypoglycaemia is less common. In the case of severe hypoglycaemia, where the person with diabetes is dependent on third parties (e.g. family member, friends, or other bystanders), drinking or eating sugar is often no longer possible and can even be life-threatening. In this situation, glucagon-based life-saving drugs exist and are available as an injection or as a nasal spray.

Glucagon is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the pancreas that stimulates the liver to release glucose into the bloodstream. In this way, the blood sugar level can be brought back to normal.

The symptoms of a (severe) hypoglycaemia can come on suddenly and vary from mild to severe: the most well-known can be (1) excessive sweating, (2) pale, (3) feeling weak and dizzy, (4) being irritable or nervous and (5) severe hypoglycemia can lead to convulsions, fainting or even loss of consciousness.

What is BAQSIMI™?

BAQSIMI™ is the first and only form of glucagon that can be used in a hypoglycemic emergency without the need for an injection (needle), but is automatically absorbed into the bloodstream when administered into the nostril.

An extensive research program has shown that Baqsimi works as well as the injectable glucagon, but can be administered more quickly due to its simplicity of use, which can be considered an important factor in an often stressful situation.

BAQSIMI™ is available as a nasal powder and is considered an important development in the emergency treatment of severe hypoglycaemia, mainly due to its simplicity of use and the absence of a needle and steps to prepare the drug. Unlike injectable glucagon, BAQSIMI™ requires no dose adjustment (because it is 1 dose for everyone) and no complicated steps to prepare it.

How to store and use BAQSIMI™?

BAQSIMI™ is approved for the treatment of severe hypoglycemia in adults, adolescents and children from 4 years of age living with diabetes mellitus.

BAQSIMI™ is a ready-to-use medicine that should be kept in its original packaging until use as it protects against moisture.

The medicine does not need to be kept in the refrigerator and the temperature must not exceed 30°C.  

The drug is administered into one nostril and is absorbed passively through the mucous membranes in the nose. It is therefore not necessary to inhale or take a deep breath after administration.

Instructions for administering BAQSIMI™ (See Figure)

1. Remove the foil by pulling the red strip.

2. Remove the packaging from the tube. (Do not push the plunger until you are ready to administer it.)

3. Hold it between fingers and thumb. Gently insert the tip into one nostril until your finger(s) touch the outside of the nose.

4. Push the plunger all the way in. (When the green line is no longer visible, the dose has been completed.)

5. If the person is unconscious, turn the person on their side to avoid suffocation.

6. Always inform your treating healthcare provider in case of severe hypoglycaemia.

7. Additional information: Baqsimi package insert and www.baqsimi.eu

26 January 2023