Lantus Solostar (100Units/ml) 3ml, 5 Pre-Filled Insulin Injection Pens

Insulin glargine is a long-acting insulin used to manage blood glucose levels in people with diabetes. Insulin glargine is designed to provide a steady, prolonged release of insulin. It forms a precipitate (solid form) in the body when injected subcutaneously, which slows its absorption into the bloodstream. This results in a slow, consistent release of insulin over a 24-hour period, mimicking the basal (background) insulin levels of a healthy pancreas. Insulin glargine helps regulate blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells, especially muscle and fat cells. It promotes the storage of glucose as glycogen in the liver and inhibits the liver's production of glucose.

Insulin

These insulin pens are used for:

• Diabetes Management
• Long-Acting Insulin Therapy
• Blood Glucose Control

Insulin glargine dosage recommendations are:

• Management of diabetes mellitus - Administered subcutaneously, with dosages tailored to individual metabolic needs and glycemic control goals. Adults - Typical starting dose for insulin-naive patients with type 2 diabetes is 0.2 units/kg once daily, with adjustments based on blood glucose monitoring. Switching from insulin glargine 300 units/mL to 100 units/mL - Dose should be reduced by approximately 20%. Switching from insulin glargine 100 units/mL to 300 units/mL - A higher dose, around 10-18% more, may be required. Transitioning from other basal insulins - Use a unit-for-unit conversion or start insulin glargine at 80% of the total daily dose of the previous insulin if it was administered twice daily. Children (≥2 years) - Dosing recommendations may vary by country and specific products. Refer to local treatment guidelines for appropriate dosing.

Symptoms of insulin glargine overdose can include severe and potentially life-threatening hypoglycemia, which may lead to coma, seizures, or neurological impairment, as well as hypokalemia. For management, mild hypoglycemic episodes should be treated with oral carbohydrates, while adjustments to insulin dosage, meal timing, or physical activity may be needed. In severe cases, glucagon should be administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously, or concentrated intravenous glucose can be given. Continuous monitoring and carbohydrate intake may be necessary following recovery from hypoglycemia, and hypokalemia should be addressed appropriately.

For missed dose, inject as soon as possible unless it's close to the next dose. Do not double dose.

Inject subcutaneously as directed. Rotate injection sites to avoid lipodystrophy. Follow healthcare provider’s instructions.

Insuline glargine should not be used in the following situations:

• Allergy to insulin glargine or any components

Unraveling the side effects lurking behind this product are the following:

• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
• Injection site reactions
• Lipodystrophy (skin thickening, lumps, dents, or pits at the injection site)
• Upper respiratory infection (e.g., common cold)
• Weight gain

When using insulin glargine, it is important to be aware of the following warnings and precautions:

• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can occur rapidly and without warning, leading to serious complications such as unconsciousness or seizures. Symptoms include anxiety, dizziness, sweating, and confusion.
• Combining insulin glargine with thiazolidinediones (TZDs) may increase the risk of heart failure.
• Sharing insulin devices can lead to infections, so each patient should use their own device.
• Monitor potassium levels regularly, as insulin can lower potassium in the blood, which may lead to irregular heartbeats.
• Allergic reactions, though rare, can be severe; individuals with a history of reactions to insulin glargine should avoid its use.
• Those with liver or kidney disease may need lower doses due to altered drug metabolism.
• Caution is advised for patients prone to low blood sugar and those with edema, as fluid retention can worsen swelling.
• The safety of insulin glargine during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not fully established, so consultation with a healthcare provider is essential.
• Seniors may require lower starting doses due to increased sensitivity to insulin.
• Parents should consult a pediatrician before using insulin glargine for children to ensure appropriate care.

Drug interactions with Insulin Glargine include:

• Oral hypoglycemics (e.g., metformin) (additive effects on blood glucose lowering)
• Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol) (may mask symptoms of hypoglycemia)
• Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) (may increase blood glucose levels)
• Diuretics (e.g., thiazides) (may increase blood glucose levels)
• Alcohol (can cause hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia depending on the context)
• Other insulin or insulin analogs (risk of hypoglycemia if not adjusted properly)

Lantus Solostar should be stored properly to maintain its effectiveness. Store the product at a temperature between 2°C and 8°C in a cool place, away from direct heat, light, and moisture. Once in use, it can be kept at room temperature (up to 25°C) for up to 28 days. Ensure the pens are tightly closed when not in use to prevent contamination. For safety purposes, keep Lantus out of reach of children and pets to avoid accidental ingestion. It is advisable to avoid storing the product in humid or warm areas, such as bathrooms or kitchens. If you have any questions or concerns about proper storage, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further guidance to ensure the product’s quality and safety.