A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
TOUJEO (insulin glargine) is prescribed to treat high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) in people with diabetes mellitus.
TOUJEO insulin is a long-acting insulin that is administered once daily, and its effects work for about 24 hours in most people.
Compared to other long-acting insulin products, TOUJEO has a higher concentration of 300 units per milliliter. The higher concentration means that people who inject large amounts of insulin can inject the same amount of medication in a lower volume.
TOUJEO SOLOSTAR pens can hold up to 450 units of insulin (1.5 milliliters.)
Directions
Administer TOUJEO subcutaneously once-daily at the same time each day. Do not change the injection time without speaking to your doctor first.
Rotate injections sites between the abdomen, thighs, and back of the arm to help avoid lipodystrophy.
Monitor blood sugar closely when making any changes to an insulin regimen.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in TOUJEO is insulin glargine.
Interactions
The following medications can change blood sugar, requiring that the dose of TOUJEO be adjusted:
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
Tell your doctor if you are taking any of the above.
Cautions
Hypoglycemia is a common side effect of TOUJEO and other insulin products. The symptoms of hypoglycemia can include:
Anxiety
Confusion
Dizziness
Fatigue
Hunger
Irritability
Pale skin
Sweating
Tremor
Read the label on the TOUJEO pen carefully before each injection. This helps to prevent medication errors.
While taking insulin, your doctor should monitor potassium levels, kidney function, and liver function.
Tell your doctor if you have a history of cardiovascular disease.
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.