Medications and Drugs

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GENERIC NAME: INSULIN GLARGINE - INJECTABLE (IN-su-lin GLAR-gene)

BRAND NAME(S): Lantus

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: Insulin glargine is used to treat diabetes mellitus. Like other insulin products, it works by helping sugar (glucose) get into cells but has a more long-acting (over 24 hours) effect. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent heart disease, strokes, kidney disease, circulation problems, and blindness.

HOW TO USE: Learn all preparation and usage instructions, including how to inject this medication properly, and how to manage your blood sugar (e.g., blood glucose monitoring, high or low blood sugar symptoms, treatment for high or low blood sugar). If any of this information is unclear, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. It is important to change the location of the injection site daily to avoid problem areas under the skin (lipodystrophy). Inject this medication under the skin (SC) usually once daily at bedtime; or use as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Measure each dose very carefully; even small changes in the amount of insulin may have a large effect on your blood sugar levels. If you experience any of the symptoms of low blood sugar (listed below in SIDE EFFECTS section), take a quick source of sugar such as glucose tablets, table sugar, orange juice, honey, or non-diet soda. Promptly contact your doctor. Insulin glargine is not recommended to be given into a vein (IV). Severe low blood sugar may result. Do not mix this type of insulin with other insulin products or with other intravenous (IV) solutions. Before using, inspect this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.