Lantus is a medication designed to lower blood sugar levels for individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. As a long-acting insulin, Lantus helps maintain stable blood glucose throughout the day and night. Its primary function is to provide a consistent, background insulin effect, which is crucial for overall blood sugar control.
What Lantus Is
Lantus is the brand name for insulin glargine, a form of insulin. It is categorized as a long-acting, or “basal,” insulin. The purpose of Lantus in diabetes care is to deliver a steady level of insulin, mimicking the body’s natural basal insulin production.
This continuous release helps to regulate blood sugar levels between meals and during sleep. Typically, Lantus is administered once daily to provide this consistent, 24-hour coverage. It is approved for use in adults and children aged 6 years and older with type 1 diabetes, and in adults with type 2 diabetes.
How Lantus Lowers Blood Sugar
Insulin glargine, the active component in Lantus, lowers blood glucose by influencing how the body processes sugar. After subcutaneous injection, insulin glargine forms microscopic deposits, allowing for its gradual and sustained release into the bloodstream over approximately 24 hours. This ensures a relatively stable insulin concentration without a pronounced peak, closely mimicking the body’s natural basal insulin.
Once released, this insulin facilitates the movement of glucose from the blood into various cells throughout the body. Muscle and fat cells readily take up glucose for immediate energy or convert it into glycogen for storage. Additionally, insulin inhibits the liver from releasing excessive amounts of glucose into the bloodstream. This dual action of promoting glucose uptake by cells and reducing glucose production by the liver collectively contributes to the lowering of blood sugar levels.
Using Lantus Safely and Effectively
Lantus is administered safely and effectively to manage blood sugar levels. It is injected just under the skin, typically in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate injection sites within the chosen area with each dose to minimize skin reactions. Lantus is usually taken once daily, and while it can be administered at any time of day, consistency is important, as injecting it at the same time each day helps maintain stable insulin levels.
The prescribed dosage of Lantus is determined by a healthcare professional and is tailored to an individual’s specific needs. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is necessary to assess the insulin’s effectiveness and make dosage adjustments. Changes in diet, physical activity, or during illness may necessitate modifications to the insulin regimen, which should always be done under medical supervision. Lantus is part of a broader diabetes management plan that may include other insulins, dietary considerations, and exercise.
Recognizing Low Blood Sugar
Low blood sugar, known as hypoglycemia, is a potential effect of insulin use, including Lantus. It occurs when blood glucose levels drop below a healthy range, typically below 70 mg/dL. Symptoms can appear quickly and vary, but commonly include shakiness, sweating, anxiety, a fast heartbeat, dizziness, hunger, confusion, or tingling/numbness in the lips, tongue, or cheeks.
If these symptoms occur, promptly consume a fast-acting carbohydrate to raise blood sugar levels. Examples include fruit juice, sugary fizzy drinks, glucose tablets, or hard candy. After consuming the carbohydrate, check blood sugar again after 15 minutes to ensure it has returned to a safe level. Frequent episodes or concerns should be discussed with a healthcare provider for guidance and potential treatment adjustment.