DRUG OF THE DAY
insulin glargine
Long-acting basal insulin
Before opening the card, recall one use, one safety check and one counseling point.
Reveal the drug learning card
Names and formulations
- Lantus: U-100 insulin glargine vial and SoloStar pen
- Toujeo: U-300 insulin glargine SoloStar and Max SoloStar pens
Lantus U-100 and Toujeo U-300 concentrations, devices, and product names must be verified every time; conversion may require dose adjustment and closer glucose monitoring.
Common use
Improves glycemic control in patients with diabetes mellitus; age indications differ by product.
Mechanism of action
Provides basal insulin-receptor activity that promotes peripheral glucose uptake and inhibits hepatic glucose production.
Important adverse effects and monitoring
- Hypoglycemia is the most common serious risk; monitor glucose and individualize targets and dose changes.
- Insulin can cause hypokalemia; monitor potassium in patients at risk.
- Prevent medication errors by checking label, concentration, device, and dose before every injection.
Patient counseling
- Never share a pen, even if the needle is changed; use a new needle and rotate injection sites.
- Do not dilute or mix insulin glargine with another insulin and follow the product-specific storage and missed-dose plan.
Interaction to recognize
With: beta blockers
Why it matters: Can blunt adrenergic warning symptoms of hypoglycemia, although sweating may persist.
Practical response: Use glucose monitoring and teach nonadrenergic warning signs rather than relying only on palpitations or tremor.
Check the original sources
- DailyMed — Lantus and Lantus SoloStar prescribing information
Sections: 1 Indications and Usage; 2 Dosage and Administration; 5 Warnings and Precautions; 7 Drug Interactions; 12.1 Mechanism of Action; 17 Patient Counseling Information. Source checked 2026-09-13.
- DailyMed — Toujeo and Toujeo Max prescribing information
Sections: 2 Dosage and Administration; 3 Dosage Forms and Strengths; 5.4 Hypoglycemia Due to Medication Errors; 17 Patient Counseling Information. Source checked 2026-09-13.
Selected learning points; verify current labeling for the complete prescribing information.