|  | Conditions Treatments | Diabetes

Insulin Glargine Side Effects

Insulin glargine is a specific type of insulin only available under the brand name Lantus. Prescribed to people with diabetes, insulin glargine works on a longer-term cycle than other insulin products, so that people may only need to administer an injection once every 24 hours.

  1. Most Common Effect

    • The most common side effect of insulin glargine is a reaction at the injection site such as pain, redness, irritation and skin thickening over time.

    Allergic Reaction

    • Rarely, people experience an allergic reaction to insulin glargine. Signs are rash, itching, dizziness, difficulty breathing, fast pulse and swelling.

    Initial Hypoglycemia Effects

    • Other side effects are related to blood sugar dropping too low, called hypoglycemia. Initial symptoms can be countered by eating carbohydrates or drinking fruit juice. Symptoms include dizziness, extreme hunger, headache, increased heart rate, irritability, shakiness or slight tremors.

    Serious Hypoglycemia Effects

    • More serious signs of hypoglycemia include blurred vision, confusion, drowsiness, problems with coordination, rapid breathing, slurred speech, fruity breath odor, fainting and seizures.

    Cancer

    • In July 2009, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration noted that three studies have suggested an increased risk of cancer associated with insulin glargine use. Based on data so far, the FDA recommends patients continue using the product.

Diabetes - Related Articles