Severe low blood sugar, or severe hypoglycemia, happens when blood glucose drops too low, cutting off the brain’s energy supply. This can cause shaking, confusion, seizures, or even loss of consciousness. About one in three adults on intensive insulin therapy face at least one severe episode each year, and some need emergency help. 

Knowing how to use glucagon injection kit is essential because glucagon helps the liver release stored sugar to quickly raise blood glucose levels. This guide explains how to recognize severe hypoglycemia, use the injection kit properly, and keep the person stable until medical help arrives.

Recognizing a Critical Drop in Blood Glucose

Severe hypoglycemia can cause shaking, sweating, headache, and irritability. It may get worse, leading to confusion, slurred speech, or even coma. If the person can’t swallow or respond, do NOT give oral glucose. Knowing how to use a glucagon injection kit can save their life.

What Does Glucagon Do?

Glucagon stimulates the liver to convert stored glycogen into glucose, rapidly increasing blood sugar when oral carbohydrates are unavailable. When severe hypoglycemia strikes and the patient cannot swallow sugar, glucagon steps in as a biochemical workaround. 

Binding to receptors on liver cells triggers rapid glycogen breakdown, freeing stored glucose into the bloodstream within minutes. This surge mimics the effect of fast-acting carbohydrates but without the need for oral intake, making glucagon the safest and fastest way to help until the person regains consciousness and can eat.

When to Deploy the Rescue Hormone

Glucagon triggers the liver to release stored glucose, typically raising blood sugar within 10–15 minutes. Use the device whenever blood glucose is <54 mg/dL (3 mmol/L) and the patient cannot take carbohydrates orally. Inform emergency services immediately after administering the dose.

Preparing the Device Correctly

Before handling any injectable treatment, wash or sanitize hands. Most modern kits contain a prefilled syringe and a vial of powder. Check the expiration date, inspect for damage, and read the glucagon injection kit instructions printed inside the case. Doing a quick mental practice beforehand helps keep your actions calm and steady during a real emergency.

Mixing the Dose Step by Step

Accurate reconstitution is essential for glucagon to work quickly and reliably. The following steps outline the correct technique to mix the solution before injection:

Remove the flip-off cap

Put the vial on a flat surface and peel off the cap. If you have an alcohol wipe, clean the rubber stopper to lower the risk of bacteria before mixing.

Insert the needle and transfer the diluent

Hold the syringe like a pencil with the needle tip facing up. Push the needle straight into the center of the stopper at a right angle. Press the plunger all the way to inject the liquid into the vial. Keep the needle inside the vial to avoid air getting in or pressure problems.

Dissolve the powder by gentle swirling

Gently roll the vial between your palms or swirl it in small circles with the syringe still attached. Don’t shake it hard, as this can damage the hormone. The powder should dissolve in 5–10 seconds, making a clear, colorless liquid.

Inspect the solution

Hold the vial up to eye level. If any particles remain or the liquid appears cloudy or discolored, discard the vial and use a backup kit. 

Draw the full dose into the syringe

Invert the vial, submerging the needle tip in the liquid to avoid drawing air. Slowly pull back the plunger until all solution is inside the barrel, usually 1 mL (1 mg) for adults. Tap the syringe lightly to let trapped bubbles rise, then push the plunger just enough to expel the air without losing medication.

Administering the Injection

Expose the upper arm, thigh, or buttock sites with ample muscle. Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle and push the plunger steadily. Withdraw the needle, then lay the patient on their side. Nausea and vomiting are common once consciousness returns. Note the exact time of the glucagon kit injection so paramedics can evaluate the response and decide on further care.

Immediate Follow-Up Measures

Check blood glucose after 15 minutes. If it remains below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L) and medical help has not yet arrived, a second dose from another glucagon emergency injection kit 1 mg may be given. Once the person is alert, provide a rapid carbohydrate (e.g., juice) followed by a longer-acting snack to stabilize levels.

Storing and Checking Your Supply

Each kit should be kept at room temperature (20–25 °C) in its original case, protected from light and moisture. Replace immediately after use or upon expiration. Regularly remind household members where the kit is stored and review procedures monthly to keep how to use glucagon injection kit skills fresh.

Training Family, Friends, and Colleagues

Anyone who may see a severe hypoglycemic episode should practice using a demo kit or watch the manufacturer’s training video at least once. Remember, glucagon is only a temporary fix — professional medical help is still necessary.

For more information, tips, and to purchase, visit our Glucagon Injection Kit Product Page. Be prepared to act quickly and keep those you care about safe during a hypoglycemic emergency.

Conclusion

Mastering how to use a glucagon injection kit transforms a chaotic emergency into a controlled medical intervention. By recognizing severe hypoglycemia early, preparing the device methodically, and following correct injection and follow-up steps, patients and caregivers can protect brain function and buy critical time until advanced care arrives with hypoglycemia medication.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the instructions for the injection kit? 

Each manufacturer supplies illustrated, step-by-step directions inside the case. Practice with a demo device to ensure muscle memory before an emergency occurs.

What is the glucagon injection kit price?

Retail costs vary by region, pharmacy, and insurance coverage, ranging from USD 150 to 350 per kit in 2025; patient-assistance programs may lower out-of-pocket expenses.

Is glucagon injection considered a hypoglycemia medication?

Yes. Although used only in emergencies, it is classified as a fast-acting hypoglycemia reversal agent rather than a daily therapy.

Can I reuse a glucagon emergency injection kit?

No. Each unit is single-use. After administration, or if the solution turns cloudy or the kit expires, dispose of it safely and obtain a replacement.