Baqsimi Nasal Powder

Baqsimi (Glucagon) Nasal Powder is an emergency treatment used to treat severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in people with diabetes. It is the first and only glucagon therapy available as a nasal powder, providing a convenient, needle-free alternative to injectable glucagon. Baqsimi is designed for easy administration, even in situations where the patient is unconscious or unable to swallow.

How Baqsimi Works

Baqsimi contains glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels by stimulating the liver to release stored glucose (glycogen) into the bloodstream. Here’s how it works:

1. Glucagon Release: Upon administration, glucagon binds to its receptors in the liver. This binding activates an enzyme called adenylate cyclase, which increases the production of cyclic AMP (cAMP).
2. Glycogenolysis: The increase in cAMP leads to the breakdown of glycogen (the stored form of glucose) into glucose. This process is called glycogenolysis.
3. Glucose Release: The glucose is then released into the bloodstream, quickly raising blood sugar levels. This rapid increase in blood sugar can be life-saving in cases of severe hypoglycemia.
4. Nasal Absorption: Unlike injectable glucagon, Baqsimi is absorbed through the nasal mucosa, making it easier to administer, especially during emergencies.

Side Effects

While Baqsimi is generally safe and effective, it can cause side effects. The most common and serious side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea and Vomiting: These are the most frequently reported side effects, occurring as the body reacts to the sudden rise in blood sugar.
• Headache: Some patients may experience headaches after using Baqsimi.
• Nasal Irritation: Since Baqsimi is administered nasally, some users may experience nasal discomfort, irritation, or sneezing.
• Watery Eyes: Irritation in the nasal passage may lead to watery eyes.

Serious Side Effects:

• Allergic Reactions: Though rare, severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) can occur, characterized by symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, and difficulty breathing.
• High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycemia): An excessive dose of glucagon can cause hyperglycemia, though this is typically transient.
• Cardiovascular Effects: Baqsimi may cause temporary changes in blood pressure and heart rate, especially in patients with underlying cardiovascular conditions.

Indications

Baqsimi is specifically indicated for the treatment of severe hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes, particularly when the patient is unable to consume oral glucose due to unconsciousness or inability to swallow.

Approved Indications:

• Severe Hypoglycemia: Baqsimi is used to treat severe low blood sugar in adults and children aged 4 years and older who have diabetes.

Contraindications

There are certain conditions under which Baqsimi should not be used.

Contraindications:

• Pheochromocytoma: Baqsimi is contraindicated in patients with pheochromocytoma, a rare tumor of the adrenal gland, as glucagon can cause the release of large amounts of catecholamines from the tumor, leading to severe hypertension.
• Insulinoma: In patients with insulinoma (a tumor of the pancreas), glucagon can cause a paradoxical increase in insulin release, worsening hypoglycemia.
• Hypersensitivity: Baqsimi is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to glucagon or any of the ingredients in the nasal powder formulation.

Price in Different Countries

The price of Baqsimi can vary depending on the country and healthcare system. Below is a table showing the approximate cost of Baqsimi in different countries.

Country	Price (Per Unit)	Reference
United States	$280 – $320	GoodRx
United Kingdom	£250 – £290	NHS UK
Canada	CAD $380 – $420	DrugBank
Australia	AUD $430 – $470	PBS Australia
Germany	€270 – €310	G-BA Germany

Top 5 Global Brands

Baqsimi is one of the leading products in its category, and it is supported by several major pharmaceutical companies.

1. Eli Lilly and Company

• Eli Lilly is the developer of Baqsimi and a global leader in diabetes care. The company is known for its innovative products and commitment to improving the lives of people with diabetes.

2. Novo Nordisk

• Novo Nordisk is a world-renowned pharmaceutical company specializing in diabetes care, though it does not directly compete with Baqsimi. The company offers a range of insulin products and other diabetes treatments.

3. Sanofi

• Sanofi is another major player in diabetes care, offering a wide range of insulin products and other therapies for diabetes management.

4. AstraZeneca

• AstraZeneca focuses on diabetes treatments and is known for products like Farxiga (dapagliflozin), which are used to manage blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

5. Pfizer

• Pfizer is a global pharmaceutical giant with a broad portfolio, including products for the treatment of diabetes and its complications.