Lantus

Lantus Solution for Injection is a man-made insulin that is very similar to human insulin. It has a long and steady (constant) effect on blood sugar levels, lasting an entire day. This makes it suitable for use once daily. It treats type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults and type 1 diabetes mellitus in adults and children.

Lantus Solution for Injection is injected under the skin (subcutaneously) with a pen-like device or an insulin syringe and needle. There are various areas on the body where insulin can be injected, such as the abdomen (stomach area), thighs (upper portion of legs), upper arms, hips, or buttocks. Your doctor will show you the area of your skin where you should inject it. Never inject it directly into a vein or a muscle. Before using Lantus Solution for Injection, make sure the solution is colorless and free of particles. It should strictly be taken in the dose that has been prescribed to you. Follow your doctor’s instructions on administering Lantus Solution for Injection correctly and monitor your blood sugar levels regularly.

Lantus Solution for Injection is injected just below the skin (subcutaneously). Your doctor will train you on the correct method and the areas (abdomen or stomach, thighs, arms, hips, or buttocks) where you should inject it. It is advised that the injection site should be changed within the chosen skin area for every dose. For example, if you have been advised to inject it into the skin of your stomach, avoid puncturing the same point on your stomach every day. Instead, inject the needle at a site that is slightly away, say around 1cm, from the previous injection. You can also consider switching sides while injecting, like choosing the right side on one day and the left side on the next day. This way, you can reduce the complications associated with repeated injections in the same site, such as thickening of the fat tissue below the skin, known as lipodystrophy, irritation, pain, etc. After one to two weeks, you should move to another area of your body (e.g., from the stomach to the arms or thighs) as your doctor advises. Consult your doctor if you face any problems while injecting Lantus Solution for Injection.

Lantus Solution for Injection is long-acting and usually prescribed to be taken once daily. It can be taken at any time, but try to take it at the same time each day.

If you have accidentally taken more than the prescribed dose of Lantus Solution for Injection, your blood sugar levels may become too low (hypoglycemia). This hypoglycemia may be mild or severe. Monitor your blood sugar levels more frequently for the next 24 hours. Mild episodes of hypoglycemia (with symptoms like anxiety, sweating, weakness, tremors, and fast heartbeat) can usually be corrected with the help of sugary foods such as sugary candy, fruit juice, and glucose. However, it is important to consult your doctor to decide on a further course of treatment. More severe episodes of hypoglycemia may even lead to a seizure (fit) or unconsciousness. This can be life-threatening, and the patient should be rushed to an emergency.

Keep this medication out of the reach of children in the container it came in. Store unopened vials and pens in the refrigerator, but do not freeze them. An unopened Lantus Solution for Injection can be stored in the refrigerator until the date shown on the company's label. Moreover, never use Lantus Solution for Injection that has been frozen or defrosted. If a refrigerator is unavailable, the vials can be stored at room temperature and away from direct sunlight and extreme heat. It should appear as a clear, colorless solution free from particles.

You should consult your doctor about the scenarios where you may need to adjust your insulin dose. For example, if you are ill, you should monitor your blood sugar levels more closely. You must tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking because many medicines can affect how insulin acts, and you may need to modify your dose. Your eating habits may also affect your dose; for example, if you eat less someday, skip a meal, or eat more than usual. Your blood sugar level may alter depending on your exercise regime, alcohol consumption, or stress. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should consult their doctor before taking Lantus Solution for Injection as they may need to change their dose.

Serious side effects are rare with Lantus Solution for Injection. Sometimes, severe allergic reactions may be seen with it. This can lead to rash, hives, itching all over the body, trouble breathing (wheezing), fast heart rate, and low blood pressure. Get medical help right away if you develop any of these symptoms. Other side effects include severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels), which can cause dizziness, sweating, anxiety, confusion, headache, blurred vision, slurred speech, shakiness, fast heartbeat, seizure (fit), and unconsciousness. Taking certain medicines such as TZDs (thiazolidinediones) may cause heart failure in some people, even if they have never had any heart problems before. Some people may also notice sudden weight gain and swelling (edema) of ankles or feet. Consult your doctor immediately if you notice any of these side effects.