How lantus works?

Whether you’re an experienced diabetic or just starting out, understanding how insulin works can be a daunting task. Luckily for you, there’s Lantus – the long-acting insulin analog that promises to keep your blood sugar levels under control without too much fuss.

But what exactly does Lantus do and how does it achieve its magical powers? Glad you asked! In this hilarious yet informative guide, we’ll break down the science behind Lantus in simple terms so that even a five-year-old could understand it (well, maybe not quite).

What is Lantus?

Lantus is an injectable medication used to treat diabetes. It contains insulin glargine which is synthesized in a lab from recombinant DNA technology using the bacterium Escherichia coli. Insulin glargine closely resembles human insulin but has been modified slightly to extend its duration of action.

When injected subcutaneously into the body, Lantus forms microprecipitates which slowly release insulin over time. This gradual release of insulin helps maintain steady blood sugar levels throughout the day and night.

The Mechanism of Action

Now that we know what Lantus is let’s talk about how it works at molecular level (cue dramatic music). When injected into fatty tissue under your skin layer (this area also recognized as “subcutaneous” tissue), the pH in surrounding tissues cause changes within each molecule by shifting their structure [].

The acid environment rearranges or ‘folds’ individual glargine molecules together into clusters called hexamers []. These six units group themselves up to hinder random molecular motion (slowly disassemble) resulting in slow distribution [] (M.Chestovich et al.,1996) . As these separate over extended periods of time (up to 24 hours), hexamers are disrupted slowly permitting glargine molecules to quench (“neutralize”) the ‘bad sugars’ you’ve got in your bloodstream.

In conclusion, Lantus works by sending calming glargine superheroes to release insulin into your circulation over an extended period. The superhero doesn’t kill all of the terrible glucose supervillains at once but gradually – like eating a box of candies one by one throughout the day – this decreases blood sugar levels effectively and safely [].

Time-Action Profile

One interesting fact about Lantus is its time-action profile. Unlike traditional insulins that peak within a few hours of injection before rapidly fading away, Lantus is designed for sustained action over almost 24 hours [].

This property makes it especially useful for people who prefer not to micromanage their insulin dosing frequently (I am looking at those who hide chocolates under their pillows). Instead, patients can rely on just one or two injections per day without fear of sudden low blood sugar episodes or other surprises.

Dosage Regimen

Lantus typically comes in prefilled pen devices allowing easy use (score!). Your physician will usually give you directions based on your present treatment regimen; although, initial doses range between 10 units daily up to as much as 100 units a day depending on individual tolerance levels and diabetes severity []. You have been warned… Best dose consultation with doctor (wink).

Proper Injection Technique for Lantus

Proper administration technique is key when taking any medication. Here’s how to properly inject yourself with Lantus:

1. Before injecting:
2. Wash hands thoroughly
3. Clean area where injection needs made
4. Draw air partial way equal to dosage size from syringe then insert needle fully into vial
5. Inject air inside vial
   4.Draw exact amount/slightly more (if there’s an air bubble at this point, tap the needle gently till it floats to top and then release) out of vial
6. Inject the entire volume in fatty tissues i.e., abdominal area or upper thighsavoiding scars and veins
7. Remove syringe quickly but ensure you press cotton ball on injection point for few seconds

Please follow your doctor’s instructions when administering Lantus.

Adverse Effects

Like all medications, Lantus has potential adverse effects that you need to look out for:
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)
Skin reactions (“Uh-oh..”)
Injection site reaction (“Ouch!”)

Consult with a physician if one experiences any side-effects persistently.. They may advise possible treatment alternatives such as gradually small dose change or a different medication []. Just talk too them to find ways around your discomforts!

Final Words

In conclusion, Lantus works by slowly introducing itself into our metabolism over long hours – resulting in fewer sharp increases & sharper falls like traditional insulins produce []. If you are feeling unsure about taking this medication, consult with a medical professional who can walk through various treatments available [].

With proper usage techniques described earlier and being aware of its common side effects, patients utilize Lantus successfully self admnistered benefits without compromising their quality-of-life goals .Cheers!