Glucagon kit guide: how and when to use it

Key Takeaways

• Glucagon kits are life-saving tools for severe low blood sugar (below 54 mg/dL with loss of consciousness)
• Caregivers and family members must be trained before an emergency occurs
• Two main forms exist: injectable kits and nasal powder (Baqsimi)
• Always call 911 after administering glucagon
• Check expiration dates every 6 months

What Is a Glucagon Kit?

A glucagon kit contains synthetic glucagon hormone, which signals the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream. It is prescribed for people with diabetes who are at risk of severe hypoglycemia — episodes so serious the person cannot eat, drink, or self-treat.

When to Use a Glucagon Kit

Indications

• Person is unconscious or unresponsive
• Seizure activity related to low blood sugar
• Unable to swallow safely
• Blood glucose below 54 mg/dL with altered mental status

Do not attempt to give food or liquid by mouth in these situations — aspiration risk is serious.

Types of Glucagon Products

Step-by-Step: Using a Standard Injectable Kit

1. Call 911 immediately or have someone else call while you administer.
2. Open the kit and remove the vial and syringe.
3. Inject all diluent liquid from the syringe into the glucagon powder vial.
4. Gently swirl — do not shake — until the powder dissolves completely (solution should be clear).
5. Draw all solution back into the syringe.
6. Inject into the outer thigh, upper arm, or buttock — through clothing if necessary.
7. Place person on their side (recovery position) to prevent choking.
8. Most people respond within 10–15 minutes.

Using Nasal Glucagon (Baqsimi)

1. Remove device from packaging.
2. Insert tip gently into one nostril.
3. Press plunger firmly with thumb — no need to inhale.
4. Place person in recovery position and monitor.

Nasal glucagon requires no mixing and works even if the person's nose is congested.

After the Emergency

• Once conscious, give 15–20g fast-acting carbohydrates followed by a snack
• Contact their diabetes care team
• Replace the used kit immediately
• Document the event in a diabetes log

Emergency Preparedness Tips

Store your glucagon kit at room temperature (68–77°F / 20–25°C), away from light and moisture. Keep one at home, one at work or school, and one with a trusted caregiver. MDS Diabetes offers glucagon kits and emergency diabetes supplies — ensure you always have an in-date kit on hand at mdsdiabetes.com.

Training Caregivers

Every person who might need to administer glucagon — family, coworkers, teachers — should practice the steps before an emergency. Many endocrinology clinics offer training sessions, and demonstration kits are available for practice.