Glucagon Rescue: Gvoke, Baqsimi, GlucaGen — Be Ready
Rescue glucagon for severe low blood sugar: nasal Baqsimi, Gvoke and Zegalogue pens, GlucaGen kits — how each works, who should carry one, and what to do after.
3 min read
Key takeaways
Rescue glucagon treats severe low blood sugar when someone cannot safely eat or drink. Modern options — a nasal powder (Baqsimi) and ready-to-use pens or syringes (Gvoke, Zegalogue) — are much simpler than the old mixing kits. After giving it, call emergency services.
Glucagon at a glance
| Generic name | glucagon / dasiglucagon |
|---|---|
| Made by | Various |
| Type | Emergency treatment for severe low blood sugar |
| Form | Injection kit, prefilled pen/syringe, nasal powder (Baqsimi) |
| How often | Emergency use only |
| United States | FDA-approved; several generics. |
| Canada | Available in Canada. |
Who should have one
Anyone using insulin — and many people taking sulfonylureas — should ask about a rescue glucagon prescription. It is used by a family member, friend, coworker or teacher, so they need to know where it is and how it works.
The options
- Baqsimi: a nasal powder sprayed into one nostril; no needle and no inhaling needed.
- Gvoke: a prefilled pen or syringe, injected under the skin.
- Zegalogue (dasiglucagon): a ready-to-use autoinjector or syringe.
- GlucaGen and generic kits: powder that must be mixed before injecting.
Step by step in an emergency
- Give the glucagon following the device's own instructions.
- Call 911 (US/Canada).
- Turn the person on their side — they may vomit as they recover.
- Once awake and able to swallow, give fast sugar, then a snack.
Keep it ready
Store at room temperature and check the expiry date every few months. Keep one at home and one in a bag or at school or work. Practice with a trainer device if one is available.
Cost
Generic and brand options exist, and insurance usually covers rescue glucagon. Ask about two-packs so you can keep one in each place.
Frequently asked questions
Can glucagon be given if I'm not sure the sugar is low?
If the person is unconscious or cannot swallow and has diabetes treated with insulin, giving glucagon and calling 911 is the standard advice.
Does nasal glucagon work if I have a cold?
Studies supported its use during colds and congestion; follow the product label.
What happens after glucagon?
The person usually wakes within about 15 minutes. They still need emergency care and food once they can swallow.
Keep reading
Sources
Checked against these primary sources on .
General information based on the official label. It does not replace advice from your prescriber or pharmacist.