Insulin Glargine

The lowest price for generic Insulin Glargin (Lantus, Basaglar, Toujeo) with EzRx Discount Drug Card is $429 for a 30-day supply. This is over 6% off on the medicine’s average retail price of $460.

Insulin Glargine is a long-acting, man-made version of insulin hormone naturally produced by the human body. Insulin Glargine is used to treat Type 1 Diabetes, a condition in which the body does not produce insulin and hence cannot control the amount of blood sugar. The injection may also be prescribed for Type 2 Diabetes in which the body doesn’t use insulin normally and hence cannot control the amount of sugar in the blood.
In the people with type 1 diabetes, Insulin Glargine is used with short-acting insulin while in those with type 2 diabetes; it can be used with oral medication. It works by replacing the shortage of insulin in the body and helps in removing sugar from the blood and moves it to other body tissues where it is used for energy. The medication helps in storing sugar in fat, increases the intake of sugar by muscles and prevents the liver from making more sugar.
The medication may be prescribed by the doctor for the purposes not mentioned here.

How to take it

Insulin Glargine solution is injected under the skin. You can inject Insulin Glargine in your upper arm, thigh or stomach. It comes in vials and in dosing pens that contain cartridges of medication. Be aware. Clear the injection site and keep it dry before injecting.
The medication is usually injected once in a day. Insulin Glargine comes in vials and in dosing pens that contain cartridges of medication. Be aware of the use of other supplies such as needles, syringes, cartridges and pens that you need to inject the medication at home.

Dosage

Dosage will be prescribed as per your specific medical condition and adjusted by your doctor based on your response to the treatment. Patients with type 1 diabetes should start with 0.2 to 0.4 units/kg a day while type 2 diabetic patients should start with 0.2 units/kg a day. It is very important to follow your doctor’s dosing instructions exactly. Read the instructions carefully on your prescription label and if available, patient information leaflet provided by your pharmacist with the medication. Use Insulin Glargine regularly to get the most benefit from it.

What if I miss a dose?

To prevent the chances of missing a dose, take the medication at the same time each day so that you remember. If you forget your doses often, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. However, if you happen to miss a dose, skip the medication if it is almost time for the next dose. Do not overdose yourself to compensate for the missed dose, as taking extra medication without doctor’s advice can cause you severe side effects, and won’t treat you earlier or faster.

Precautions and side effects

Blood sugar monitoring is essential for the patient on insulin therapy and dose must be individualized based on the clinical response.
Do not use Insulin Glargine if you checked your blood sugar and found it to be low. Do not reuse needles and syringes and do not share your dosing pen with others. Do not dilute the medication and do not mix it with other types of insulin. Do not use Insulin Glargine if the solution is colored, cloudy or contains solid particles. Do not use cold Insulin Glargine because it can be painful, the medicine container can be kept at room temperature before use. Measure each dose carefully and use exact amount as prescribed by the doctor as even small change in the dose can have a significant effect on your blood sugar level.
Insulin Glargine only control diabetes, and does not cure it. Continue taking the medication even if you feel better. Do not stop taking it or change the medicine’s brand without doctor’s advice. Common side effects of Insulin Glargine include low blood sugar level, weight gain, swelling in arms and legs. Other side effects include breathing problem, anxiety, dizziness, increased hunger, fast heat rate, blurred vision and shakiness.
This is not a complete list of the side effects and others may occur. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor. Call your doctor if you experience severe side effects.

Disclaimer: The information and content posted on this website is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used as a replacement for medical advice. Always seek medical advice from a medical professional for diagnosis or treatment, including before embarking on and/or changing any prescription medication or for specific medical advice related to your medical history.