What is lantus?

Have you ever heard of a drug called Lantus? No? Well, let me enlighten you, my friend. If diabetes is your problem, then Lantus might be the solution that has been missing in your life all along.

A Brief Introduction to Diabetes

Before we dive into what exactly is Lantus and its role in treating diabetes, let’s take a quick look at the condition itself. Diabetes refers to a chronic illness marked by an inability of the body to produce or effectively use insulin – a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin while type 2 diabetes arises when cells fail to respond appropriately to insulin. Both types can lead to high blood sugar levels which may cause various health complications such as kidney problems, blindness, nerve damage (you don’t want this) and even death if left untreated.

It’s no secret that living with diabetes isn’t easy but don’t despair just yet. Thanks to science and modern medicine, there are numerous drugs available today aimed at managing this disease – one of them being Lantus.

So What Exactly Is Lantus?

Lantus is an FDA-approved long-acting basal insulin analogue developed by Sanofi-Aventis Pharmaceutical Company (now known as Sanofi). Basal insulin provides consistent coverage throughout the day usually within twenty-four hours after injection whilst short-acting insulins work quickly but last only for several hours “like ants on speed”(weird way yo put it right?) .

Unlike some other insulins out there that need multiple injections per day like glargine-RX(XX Rx used here LOL) , NPH(insulin human), Levemir(detemir) among others; lantis allows people living with Type 1 & Type 2 Diabetes One single dose each day . It consists of a solution of insulin glargine (100 units/mL), sodium hydroxide, and L-proline.

Lantus works by regulating the release of glucose from the liver steadily while keeping glucose level steady thereby reducing the risk of hypoglycemia(overproduction of insulin leading to drastic low blood sugar levels). It also helps improve glycemic control especially during fasting periods making it an ideal choice for people with a busy schedule.

How Do You Take Lantus?

Now that we have established what Lantus is let’s discuss how you can take it effectively. Note always consult your doctor on dosage as this will depend on each individual’s needs . In general, lantis is usually administered once daily subcutaneously under the skin in either :
Abdomen
Thighs
Upper Arm

The injection site should be alternated regularly and injected at around the same time every day preferably when meals are consistent. Your healthcare provider might recommend starting with small doses(give me sips not cups) before gradually increasing them until optimal results are achieved.

It’s important to measure your blood sugar levels regularly too (don’t feel like stabbing my fingers anymore- auto diabetic meters out now) to ensure they remain within target range hence if you notice any changes get in touch with your healthcare provider ASAP.

Who Can Use Lantus?

Well, since diabetes does not discriminate,the good news is anyone living with Type 1 & Type 2 Diabetes who require basal insulin coverage could consider using lantis(an exception being those allergic or hypersensitive to some component(s) contained therein such as Insulin Glargine).

However pregnant women,taking other drugs(as usual make sure you tell your medical practitioner about all medications taken both Over-The-Counter Supplements inclusive ; allergic reactions ),also those who had severe low blood sugar episodes in past few months should also make such known to determining physicians.

Side Effects

Take everything with a pinch of salt and Lantus is no exception; as great as it could be ,it might come with certain side effects which may vary amongst individuals. Here are some common or not-so-common signs you need to watch out for :
– Hypoglycemia(low blood sugar levels)
– Erythema
– Pruritus(itchiness),
– Rash at injection site,
– Weight Gain.

Although if you do have concerns, always feel free to contact your medical provider immediately especially f unusual reaction like anaphylaxis(fast heart beat) or fluid buildup in affected areas(pulmonary edema). Otherwise,nodespite the aforementioned side effects lantis remains one of the most preferred owing to its long duration action among other setouts its functional /non-functional properties put forth by Sanofi – company producing this insulin analog.

“Diamonds are a girl’s best friend” or should we say Lantus? You might want to try Lantus today who knows maybe it’s what has been missing in handling diabetes!!

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