Question 1

What is Baqsimi?

Accepted Answer

Baqsimi is a portable treatment containing glucagon, a naturally occurring hormone. This medication acts as a rescue therapy by triggering the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream.

By raising blood sugar levels rapidly, it helps stabilize the body during a severe hypoglycemic crisis. It serves as an emergency tool to counteract the effects of dangerously low blood glucose levels.

Question 2

What is Baqsimi used for?

Accepted Answer

Baqsimi is used to treat hypoglycemia .

Question 3

How does Baqsimi work?

Accepted Answer

Mechanism of Action

Baqsimi contains glucagon, a synthetic version of a hormone that occurs naturally in the body. Its primary function is to increase blood sugar levels during a severe hypoglycemic emergency. When blood sugar drops to dangerous levels, the body requires a rapid source of glucose to restore normal function.

The medication works through the following process:

Liver Stimulation: Once absorbed, the glucagon travels through the body and targets the liver.

Glucose Conversion: It triggers the liver to convert glycogen, which is a stored form of sugar, into glucose.

Bloodstream Release: This glucose is then released into the bloodstream, which causes blood sugar levels to rise quickly.

Nasal Absorption

Unlike other emergency treatments for low blood sugar that require an injection, Baqsimi is delivered as a dry powder through the nose. The medication is absorbed directly through the mucous membranes in the nasal passage. Because it is absorbed passively, the person receiving the dose does not need to inhale or sniff for the medication to work. This allows the treatment to be effective even if the person is unconscious or has a cold.

Question 4

What are the active ingredients in Baqsimi?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredient in Baqsimi is glucagon .

Question 5

What are the side effects of Baqsimi?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Baqsimi may include:

Nausea

Headache

Upper respiratory tract irritation

Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 6

What drug class is Baqsimi?

Accepted Answer

Baqsimi belongs to the glucagon drug class.

Question 7

What is the dosage of Baqsimi and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

How to Administer

Baqsimi is a single-use device that delivers medicine into the nose to treat severe low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). The medicine is absorbed through the lining of the nose and does not need to be inhaled, meaning it can be used even if the person is unconscious or has a cold.

Remove the device from its plastic tube only when you are ready to use it.

Hold the device between your fingers and thumb.

Insert the tip gently into one nostril until your fingers touch the outside of the nose.

Push the plunger firmly all the way in. The dose is complete when the green line on the plunger is no longer visible.

Emergency Steps

Call for emergency medical assistance immediately after administering the dose. If the person is unconscious, turn them onto their side to prevent choking if they vomit. If the person does not respond to the first dose, a second dose may be given using a new, unused device.

As soon as the person is awake and able to swallow, they should be given a fast-acting source of sugar, such as fruit juice, candy, or glucose tablets. They should also eat a snack or meal that contains both protein and carbohydrates to help maintain their blood sugar levels.

Question 8

Is Baqsimi safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

There is limited clinical data on the use of Baqsimi specifically in pregnant individuals. However, glucagon is a hormone that occurs naturally in the body and does not cross the placenta to reach the fetus. Untreated severe low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is a medical emergency that can lead to serious complications for both the pregnant person and the developing baby. Because of these risks, Baqsimi may be used during pregnancy if a healthcare provider determines it is necessary.

Breastfeeding

It is not known whether Baqsimi passes into human breast milk. Glucagon is a protein, and if any amount were present in breast milk, it would likely be broken down in the infant's digestive tract and not absorbed into their bloodstream. There have been no reported negative effects on nursing infants when the mother uses glucagon products. If you are breastfeeding, you should inform your doctor if you have needed to use Baqsimi to manage severe low blood sugar.

Question 9

What forms and strengths does Baqsimi come in?

Accepted Answer

Available Forms

Baqsimi is available as a nasal powder. It is supplied in a single-use intranasal device that is ready to use without any mixing or preparation.

The device is designed to deliver the medication into the nostril as a dry powder. Each dispenser is intended for one-time use only and should be discarded after the dose is administered.

Question 10

What is the FDA approval status of Baqsimi?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval and Indications

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Baqsimi in July 2019. It was the first glucagon therapy approved for the emergency treatment of severe hypoglycemia that does not require an injection. It is indicated for use in adults and pediatric patients aged 4 years and older who have diabetes.

Regulatory History

Baqsimi was originally developed and launched by Eli Lilly and Company. In 2023, the FDA approved the transfer of the drug's application to Amphastar Pharmaceuticals, following an acquisition of the product.

Safety and Monitoring

There are currently no boxed warnings or Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies (REMS) required by the FDA for this medication. It is regulated as a prescription-only emergency treatment.

Question 11

What should I know about Baqsimi and cost?

Accepted Answer

Insurance and Pharmacy Factors

The amount a patient pays for Baqsimi is largely determined by their insurance plan. Most commercial insurance, Medicare Part D, and Medicaid plans cover the medication, but the specific copay or coinsurance amount varies by plan. Pharmacy prices can also fluctuate based on location and whether the pharmacy is in-network for the patient's insurance.

Financial Assistance

Manufacturer savings cards or patient assistance programs may be available for eligible individuals with commercial insurance to help lower out-of-pocket costs. These programs are typically not available for those covered by government-funded insurance like Medicare or Medicaid.

Generic Availability

There is currently no generic version of Baqsimi available. As a brand-name medication, the cost may be higher than generic glucagon injections, though the nasal delivery system is unique to this product.

Storage and Replacement

Because Baqsimi is a single-use device, it must be replaced immediately after use. It also has a specific expiration date; if the device expires before it is used, it must be replaced at the full cost allowed by the patient's insurance or pharmacy pricing to ensure it is ready for an emergency.

Baqsimi

📋Overview

What It's Used For

How It Works

Side Effects

Warnings & Precautions

Dosage & How to Take

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Forms & Strengths

FDA / Regulatory Status

Price Information

FAQ

Additional Resources

Support & Help Resources

📚References

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