Medication Overview
Lantus (insulin glargine) is a long-acting insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults and children with diabetes mellitus. It helps to provide a steady level of insulin over a 24-hour period, assisting with the management of blood sugar levels throughout the day and night.
Who Should Consider Lantus? Lantus is suitable for:
- Adults and children with type 1 diabetes.
- Adults with type 2 diabetes who require long-acting insulin to help control blood sugar levels.
How is Lantus Administered?
Lantus is administered via subcutaneous injection once daily at the same time each day. The dosing is individualized based on the patient’s current medical condition, metabolic needs, blood glucose monitoring results, and glycemic control goal.
Important Information for Lantus Users:
- How to Use: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully when administering Lantus. Ensure proper injection technique and rotate injection sites to prevent skin changes such as lipodystrophy.
- Storage: Unopened Lantus vials, pens, and cartridges should be stored in the refrigerator but not frozen. Opened or in-use vials can be kept at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 28 days. Pens and cartridges in use should not be refrigerated.
- Side Effects: Common side effects include hypoglycemia, injection site reactions, and weight gain. Severe side effects can include allergic reactions and hypokalemia (low potassium levels).
- Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is essential. Adjustments to insulin dosage should be made based on blood sugar levels and as directed by a healthcare provider.
Medication Warnings
- Hypoglycemia: Lantus can cause low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia), which can be severe. Be aware of the symptoms of hypoglycemia, which include shaking, sweating, fast heartbeat, and blurred vision, and know how to treat it promptly.
- Hyperglycemia: If not dosed properly, Lantus can lead to high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia). Symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, confusion, and drowsiness.
- Potassium Levels: Lantus may cause a significant shift in potassium levels in the blood, which can lead to hypokalemia, a potentially life-threatening condition.
Who Should and Shouldn’t Take Lantus?
- Suitable Candidates:
- Individuals requiring long-acting insulin to manage baseline blood sugar levels over a 24-hour period.
- Unsuitable Candidates:
- Individuals with hypersensitivity to insulin glargine or any of the excipients in Lantus.
- Patients experiencing hypoglycemia should not take Lantus until their blood sugar levels are stabilized.
For more detailed information and personalized advice, consult your healthcare provider.
