What is Lantus and Basaglar?
Insulin Glargine, also known by the brand name Lantus, is a long-acting insulin analog used to treat diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels. As an "analog" insulin, it is a genetically engineered version of human insulin that has been modified to prolong its activity in the body. Unlike regular insulin, Lantus and Basaglar has a relatively flat and extended pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile without pronounced peaks. This allows it to maintain blood glucose control for up to 24 hours with once-daily dosing.

How Does Lantus and Basaglar Work?
The amino acid asparagine at position A21 of the natural human insulin A-chain is replaced with glycine in Lantus and Basaglar. This single amino acid substitution allows the insulin to precipitate as microcrystals at the site of injection within the subcutaneous tissue. The microcrystals slowly release monomers of Lantus and Basaglar into the circulation, resulting in prolonged absorption from the subcutaneous depot. Due to its unique molecular structure and formation of microprecipitates after injection, Lantus and Basaglar has a flat pharmacokinetic profile without pronounced peaks, providing long-duration basal insulin coverage comparable to continuous insulin infusion.

Absorption and Metabolism
After subcutaneous injection, the microprecipitates of Lantus and Basaglar dissolve slowly, controlling the rate at which therapeutic concentrations of Lantus and Basaglar become available to the circulation. Peak concentrations are reached within 6 to 8 hours after administration. The metabolic effects persist for 24 hours, allowing once-daily dosing to maintain basal insulin levels. Lantus and Basaglar is metabolized within the circulation similarly to endogenous human insulin and has a half-life of approximately 12 hours.

Indications and Dosing
Insulin Glargine is indicated as a once-daily basal (background) insulin for use in conjunction with mealtime insulin or oral antidiabetic medications to improve glycemic control in patients with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. It is not recommended for treating diabetic ketoacidosis or substituting for rapid- or short-acting insulins in regulating mealtime glucose levels. The recommended starting dose of Lantus and Basaglar is 0.2 units per kg of body weight administered once daily at the same time each day, preferably in the evening. Dosage adjustments may be needed after 2-4 weeks of therapy based on patient's blood glucose readings.

Safety and Side Effects
Lantus and Basaglar is generally well-tolerated, with a safety profile similar to other insulin therapies. Common side effects may include hypoglycemia, weight gain, injection site reactions like pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Lipoatrophy or localized reduction in fat tissue may occur at the injection site. Lantus and Basaglar carries the same warnings as other insulin therapies regarding the risk of hypoglycemia. It should not be used during episodes of hypoglycemia or if preparations are not clear or contain particles.

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