Brand Names: Lantus, Lantus OptiClik Cartridge, Lantus Solostar Pen

Generic Name: insulin glargine (Pronunciation: IN soo lin GLAR jeen)

• What is insulin glargine (Lantus)?
• What are the possible side effects of insulin glargine (Lantus)?
• What is the most important information I should know about insulin glargine (Lantus)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using insulin glargine (Lantus)?
• How should I use insulin glargine (Lantus)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Lantus)?
• What happens if I overdose (Lantus)?
• What should I avoid while using insulin glargine (Lantus)?
• What other drugs will affect insulin glargine (Lantus)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is insulin glargine (Lantus)?

Insulin glargine is a man-made form of a hormone that is produced in the body. It works by lowering levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. Insulin glargine is a long-acting form of insulin that is slightly different from other forms of insulin that are not man-made.

Insulin glargine is used to treat type 1 (insulin-dependent) or type 2 (non insulin-dependent) diabetes.

Insulin glargine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of insulin glargine (Lantus)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of insulin allergy: itching skin rash over the entire body, wheezing, trouble breathing, fast heart rate, sweating, or feeling like you might pass out.

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is the most common side effect of insulin glargine. Symptoms include headache, hunger, weakness, sweating, tremors, irritability, trouble concentrating, rapid breathing, fast heartbeat, fainting, or seizure (severe hypoglycemia can be fatal). Carry hard candy or glucose tablets with you in case you have low blood sugar.

Tell your doctor if you have itching, swelling, redness, or thickening of the skin where you inject insulin glargine.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Read the Lantus (insulin glargine [rdna origin] injection) Side Effects Center for a complete guide to possible side effects »

What is the most important information I should know about insulin glargine (Lantus)?

Take care not to let your blood sugar get too low. Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can occur if you skip a meal, exercise too long, drink alcohol, or are under stress. Symptoms include headache, hunger, weakness, sweating, tremors, irritability, or trouble concentrating. Carry hard candy or glucose tablets with you in case you have low blood sugar. Other sugar sources include orange juice and milk. Be sure your family and close friends know how to help you in an emergency.

Also watch for signs of blood sugar that is too high (hyperglycemia). These symptoms include increased thirst, increased urination, hunger, dry mouth, fruity breath odor, drowsiness, dry skin, blurred vision, and weight loss. Your blood sugar will need to be checked often, and you may need to adjust your insulin glargine dose.

Insulin glargine is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet, exercise, weight control, foot care, eye care, dental care, and testing your blood sugar. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely. Changing any of these factors can affect your blood sugar levels.