Lantus (Insulin Glargine)

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    Description

    LANTUS (insulin glargine) is a long-acting insulin prescribed to treat high blood glucose (hyperglycemia) in people with diabetes mellitus.

    LANTUS can provide around-the-clock treatment for hyperglycemia. It is often paired with other short-acting insulins that are used around meal-time.

    Fact Table

    Formula

    C267H404N72O78S6

    License

    US FDA, EMA

    Bioavailability

    ~60%

    Legal status

    Prescription only (Rx)

    Chemical Name

    Insulin Glargine

    Elimination half-life

    12–19 hours (dose-dependent)

    Dosage (Strength)

    100 units/mL (vial or SoloStar pen)

    Pregnancy

    Category C – Use only if clearly needed

    Brands

    Lantus, Basaglar, Toujeo (U-300 formulation)

    Protein binding

    Low (<10%)

    PubChem CID

    16131238

    MedlinePlus

    a699001

    ChEBI

    81971

    ATC code

    A10AE04

    DrugBank

    DB00047

    KEGG

    D04559

    Routes of administration

    Subcutaneous injection

    Directions

    Inject LANTUS once daily under the skin. The dose of LANTUS insulin is determined by the doctor based on several factors like blood glucose monitoring, type of diabetes, and glycemic control.

    Do not mix in the same vial with other types of insulin

    Ingredients

    The active ingredient in LANTUS is insulin glargine.

    Insulin glargine is a long-acting insulin that is usually injected once per day. Long-acting insulins last for 24 hours in most people. 

    LANTUS comes as a vial or a pre-filled pen called LANTUS SOLOSTAR.

    Interactions

    Certain medications can affect the blood glucose of patients with diabetes mellitus. These medications include:

    • Alcohol
    • Atypical Antipsychotics
    • Beta-blockers
    • Clonidine
    • Corticosteroids
    • Disopyramide
    • Diuretics
    • Estrogens/Progesterones
    • Fibrates
    • Fluoxetine
    • Isoniazid
    • Lithium
    • Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
    • Niacin
    • Oral antidiabetic agents
    • Pentoxifylline
    • Phenothiazine derivatives
    • Pramlintide
    • Propoxyphene
    • Protease inhibitors
    • Salicylates
    • Somatostatin Analogues
    • Somatropin
    • Sulfonamide Antibiotics
    • Sympathomimetic agents
    • Thyroid replacement medication

    If you start, stop, or change any of the above medications while taking insulin, speak with your doctor. Your dosage may need to be adjusted.

    Cautions

    Do not share insulin pen between different patients, even if the pen needle is changed after each injection.

    Carefully read the label for LANTUS before injecting to make sure medication occurs do not happen. Too much insulin can lead to a life-threatening condition called hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

    Side Effects

    Some of the more common side effects of LANTUS include:

    • Allergic reactions
    • Edema
    • Hypoglycemia
    • Injection site reactions
    • Lipodystrophy
    • Pruritis
    • Rash
    • Weight gain

    Rotating injection sites can decrease the incidence of certain side effects like lipodystrophy and injection site reactions.

    References

    1. Lantus [package insert] Bridgewater, NJ: Sanofi-Aventis; 2018.



    Frequently Asked Questions about Lantus (Insulin Glargine)


    What is Lantus (Insulin Glargine)?

    Lantus is a long-acting insulin used to help control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes mellitus (type 1 or type 2). It contains insulin glargine, which provides a steady release of insulin over 24 hours.


    How should I use Lantus?

    Lantus is typically injected once daily at the same time each day, usually in the evening. It should be injected subcutaneously (under the skin) in areas like the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. It should never be mixed with other insulins or given intravenously.


    Can Lantus be used in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes?

    Yes.

    In type 1 diabetes, it is used alongside mealtime (rapid-acting) insulin.

    In type 2 diabetes, it may be used alone or with other medications, including oral drugs or other insulins.


    What are the possible side effects of Lantus?

    Common side effects include:

    Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
    Weight gain
    Swelling (edema)
    Reactions at the injection site (redness, swelling, itching)

    Severe allergic reactions or low potassium levels (hypokalemia) are rare but serious.


    How is Lantus different from other insulins?

    Lantus is long-acting and designed to mimic the body’s basal insulin production. Unlike short-acting insulins, it has no pronounced peak and lasts around 24 hours, providing steady control of blood glucose between meals and overnight.


    Can I adjust my Lantus dose myself?

    No. Dose changes should always be made by your healthcare provider, based on your blood sugar readings and other factors like weight, diet, and activity level.


    What should I do if I miss a dose of Lantus?

    Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, as long as it’s not too close to your next scheduled dose. Do not double up. If unsure, call your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.


    How should I store Lantus?

    Unopened pens/vials: Store in the refrigerator (36°F to 46°F / 2°C to 8°C).

    In-use pens/vials: Store at room temperature (below 86°F / 30°C) for up to 28 days.
    Do not freeze, and protect from light and heat.


    Can Lantus cause weight gain?

    Yes. Like other insulins, Lantus may cause weight gain due to improved glucose utilization and decreased glucose loss in urine. Eating a balanced diet and regular exercise can help mitigate this effect.


    Is Lantus safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

    Yes, under medical supervision. Lantus has been used safely in pregnancy, but insulin needs often change during pregnancy. It is also considered safe while breastfeeding, though monitoring and dose adjustment may be necessary.

    IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.

    Product Code : 13361

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