Lantus Insulin ^*

When a parent or caregiver is administering Lantus Insulin to a young child, there are a few basic guidelines. Choose a spot on the belly, upper arms, thighs, buttocks, or hips. Wipe the area clean with a fresh damp alcohol swab. Rotate the injection site in a cycle, so that the same spot is not used more than once in a month. After injection, dispose of the needle safely.

Lantus is a long-acting insulin analog (insulin glargine). It has an onset of insulin activity of 1.5 to 2 hours. The insulin effect reaches a peak in three to four hours, and it continues to work for 24 –36 hours.

For adult patients with type 2 diabetes, Lantus Insulin is often administered at bedtime. This is because insulin glargine reduces blood glucose levels more efficiently while fasting. There is less risk of nocturnal hypoglycemic events (low blood sugar) than when a patient is treated with an intermediate-acting insulin (NPH).

In a small proportion of patients (about 10%), the levels of insulin taper off after an injection of glargine, so doses must be taken twice daily to keep the coverage of basal insulin sufficient. Some people can encounter a peak 2-6 hours after injection when administered at night. This can cause nocturnal hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

It is important to follow the storage instructions for Lantus (insulin glargine) pens and vials, to keep the contents safe and effective. Unopened pens and vials should be stored in the refrigerator, at between 36 and 46 degrees F (4–10 degrees C). Once a vial or pen has been opened, it can only be used for 28 days.