insulin glargine

Insulin glargine is a bioengineered (man-made) injectable form of long-acting insulin that is used to regulate sugar (glucose) levels in type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Individuals with type 1 diabetes do not produce insulin on their own; and individuals with type 2 diabetes do not produce enough insulin, or insulin is not as effective due to insulin resistance.

Insulin glargine works the same way as natural human insulin, but it's action lasts longer. It helps diabetic patients regulate glucose or sugar in the body. Insulin glargine works by promoting movement of sugar from blood into body tissues and also stops sugar production in liver. Insulin glargine is man-made insulin that mimics the actions of human insulin.

The FDA approved insulin glargine in April 2000.

What brand names are available for insulin glargine?

Is insulin glargine available as a generic drug?

GENERIC AVAILABLE: No

Do I need a prescription for insulin glargine?

What are the side effects of insulin glargine?

Common side effects of insulin glargine are:

Local allergic reactions that may occur at the injection sites are:

Long term use of insulin glargine can lead to thickening of fat tissues at the injection site.

Severe allergic reactions are:

Individuals should contact a healthcare professional if they experience any of the above reactions.

SLIDESHOW

What is the dosage for insulin glargine?

Which drugs or supplements interact with insulin glargine?

There are many drugs that do not directly interfere with insulin glargine, but they may affect glucose breakdown in the body. This necessitates adjustments of insulin glargine doses.

Other drugs that can decrease the blood-sugar-lowering effect of insulin glargine are:

Health News

Is insulin glargine safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

Safe and effective use of insulin glargine is not established for pregnant females.

It is not known whether insulin glargine enters breast milk; therefore, it should be used with caution in females who are breastfeeding.

What else should I know about insulin glargine?

What preparations of insulin glargine are available?

Insulin glargine is available as 100 units/ml. Insulin glargine is supplied in 10 ml vials, 3 ml SoloStar injectable pens, and a 3 ml cartridge system. Insulin glargine is given only by subcutaneous injection.

How should I keep insulin glargine stored?

Summary

Insulin glargine (Lantus) is an injectable form of long-lasting insulin that is prescribed to regulate blood sugar levels in individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Side effects, drug interactions, dosing, storage, and pregnancy safety information should be reviewed prior to taking any medication.

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