Lantus Side Effects
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
Lantus, a long-acting, synthetic insulin that is marketed by Sanofi-Aventis, is used in conjunction with diet and exercise to control high blood sugar.[1] It is generally prescribed for both individuals who are insulin-dependent, also called type 1 diabetics, as well as those who are non-insulin dependent, type 2 diabetics, over the age of six. Lantus is injected once daily at approximately the same time each day. Lantus side effects are usually minor and may disappear or respond to simple treatment.[2]
 Flickr: elgringospain | |
| Brand name for | Insulin glargine[3] |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Sanofi-Aventis[4] |
| Uses | Help control blood sugar in patients with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes |
| Common side effects | Low blood sugar; Itchiness, pain, redness, or inflammation at the injection site[3] |
| Who should not take Lantus | Individuals who are allergic to insulin and those with low blood sugar[5] |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
|
| |
Contents |
Common Lantus Side Effects
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is the most widely-reported side effect of Lantus or any other drug containing insulin. Hypoglycemia can be serious and potentially fatal in some cases, and can cause damage to the brain and the heart.[3] Signs of low blood sugar differ between individuals and may include dizziness, perspiration, shaking, extreme hunger, blurred vision, behavioral changes, irritability and confusion, loss of coordination, difficulty speaking, seizures, and unconsciousness.[2]
Reactions at the injection site, such as redness, swelling, pain, rash, or itching, are are also commonly experienced with Lantus.[3] Pitting or thickening of the skin at the injection site may also be experienced.[2]
Drug Side Effects
Lantus Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions to Lantus are usually experienced at the injection site. These allergic symptoms may include itching and swelling, as well as pain, redness and inflammation. Changes in the fat tissue of the skin may also occur.[3]
Lantus also contains inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions. In rare cases, allergic reactions may be life threatening. Signs of these more serious allergic reactions include facial swelling; itchiness around the eyes, tongue, or mouth; unexplained rash; dizziness; and difficulty breathing.[5]
Lantus Precautions and Warnings
- Taking Lantus in any way other than has been presribed by a health care professional can increase the risk of hypoglycemia.[5]
- Consuming alcoholic beverages while on Lantus can increase the risk of hypoglycemia.[5]
- Lantus patients are advised not to combine Lantus with other types of insulin, or to add water or any other substance to the medication. Doing so can stop Lantus from working the way it is supposed to.[3]
- Patients are advised not to use Lantus if the solution has any color to it, and is not fully clear.[3]
- Syringes and needles are not meant to be shared with other people.[3]
- Women who become pregnant while taking Lantus are advised to discuss the condition with a doctor.[3]
Also See: Lantus Coupons, Lantus Patient Assistance Programs, Diabetes Coupons, Avandia Side Effects, Metformin Coupons, Insulin and Alzheimer's
|
|
|
|
References
- ↑ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0000004/
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 http://diabetes.emedtv.com/lantus/lantus-side-effects.html
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 http://www.lantus.com/learn/benefits-risks.aspx
- ↑ http://www.lantus.com/
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-20815-lantus+subq.aspx?drugid=20815&drugname=lantus+subq
