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Insulin Glargine: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Insulin Glargine is a long-acting (basal) insulin analog indicated to improve glycemic control in adults and pediatric patients with diabetes mellitus.

Forms:SC Injection

About Insulin Glargine

Indications of Insulin Glargine

Insulin Glargine is a long-acting (basal) insulin analog indicated to improve glycemic control in adults and pediatric patients with diabetes mellitus.

  • Type 1 diabetes mellitus (established use): Insulin Glargine is used as part of a basal-bolus regimen, combined with short- or rapid-acting insulin for mealtime coverage, in adults and children.
  • Type 2 diabetes mellitus (established use): Insulin Glargine is used alone or in combination with oral antidiabetic agents or other injectable therapies when diet, exercise, and oral medicines do not achieve adequate glycemic control.

Insulin Glargine is not indicated for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis; a rapid-acting intravenous insulin is required for that condition.

Dosage & Administration of Insulin Glargine

Dosage of Insulin Glargine must always be individualized and adjusted by a qualified physician based on the patient's blood glucose targets, meal pattern, activity level, and results of self-monitoring of blood glucose. There is no fixed universal dose.

IndicationTypical starting guidance
Type 1 diabetes (adults and children)Approximately one-third of the total daily insulin requirement is given as Insulin Glargine; the remainder is given as short- or rapid-acting insulin with meals, individualized by the physician.
Type 2 diabetes (insulin-naive adults)A common starting dose is 0.2 units/kg or up to 10 units once daily, subsequently titrated by the physician based on glucose monitoring.
Switching from other insulin regimensDose conversion (e.g., from NPH insulin or other basal insulins) must be done under close medical supervision with more frequent glucose monitoring during the transition period.

Insulin Glargine is given once daily (occasionally split into two doses on physician advice) by subcutaneous injection at the same time each day, into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, with rotation of injection sites. It must not be given intravenously or used in an insulin infusion pump, and must not be diluted or mixed with any other insulin or solution in the same syringe.

Side Effects of Insulin Glargine

The most common and most serious adverse effect of Insulin Glargine is hypoglycemia, which can be severe and life-threatening (see also Precautions and Warnings).

Other reported side effects of Insulin Glargine include:

  • Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, itching, or pain)
  • Lipodystrophy at injection sites (skin thickening or pitting) with repeated injection in the same spot
  • Allergic reactions, ranging from mild local rash to rare severe systemic hypersensitivity/anaphylaxis
  • Peripheral edema, particularly when starting therapy or with concomitant thiazolidinedione use
  • Weight gain
  • Rarely, low potassium levels (hypokalemia)

Contraindications of Insulin Glargine

Insulin Glargine is contraindicated in:

  • Patients experiencing an episode of hypoglycemia.
  • Patients with known hypersensitivity to insulin glargine or any excipient of Insulin Glargine.

Frequently Asked Questions about Insulin Glargine

What is Insulin Glargine used for?

Insulin Glargine is a long-acting basal insulin used to control blood sugar in adults and children with type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is not used to treat diabetic ketoacidosis.

How often is Insulin Glargine injected?

Insulin Glargine is usually injected once daily at the same time each day, though your physician may occasionally recommend twice-daily dosing. The exact dose and schedule must be individualized by your doctor.

Can I mix Insulin Glargine with other insulins in the same syringe?

No. Insulin Glargine must never be diluted or mixed with any other insulin or solution, as this can change its long, steady action. If you also need mealtime insulin, it must be given as a separate injection.

What is the biggest risk with Insulin Glargine?

The main risk is hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can be serious. It is more likely if you skip meals, exercise more than usual, drink alcohol, or take an incorrect dose. Learn to recognize symptoms such as sweating, shakiness, and confusion, and always carry a fast-acting sugar source.

Is Insulin Glargine safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Insulin Glargine should be used in pregnancy or while breastfeeding only if clearly needed and under close medical supervision, since good blood sugar control is important for both mother and baby; discuss this with your physician.

How should I store Insulin Glargine?

Keep unopened Insulin Glargine refrigerated (2–8°C) and never let it freeze. Once you start using a vial, cartridge, or pen, it can usually be kept at room temperature (below 30°C) away from heat and light, and should be discarded after 28 days even if some remains.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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