Lantus Instructions

Lantus is prescribed for individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or for anyone over the age of 6 diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Lantus is long-lasting insulin injected once a day at the same time every day. Dosages may vary according to the individual's diabetes treatment requirements. It is used in conjunction with oral diabetes medications or other types of insulin. To get the most out of diabetes treatment, the insulin must be properly stored and injected.

Storage

• Lantus is safely stored at room temperatures ranging from 36 degrees Fahrenheit to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Insulin kept below the recommended temperature freezes. Insulin that freezes separates, clumps and cannot be taken. Throw it away. If it gets too warm, it eventually spoils. Bacteria break down the insulin. The insulin loses its effectiveness and blood sugar levels spin out of control. In warm climates, store insulin in a refrigerator. Store vials of insulin at room temperature for up to 28 days and Lantus pens for up to 2 weeks. Store extra vials of insulin in the refrigerator until they are needed.

Injection

• Choose an injection site. Recommended sites include: top or outer thighs; top outside areas on the back of the arms and the abdomen. Inject Lantus into the fat tissues just under the skin. Do not inject insulin into muscle or within 2 inches of the naval. Do not inject close to scars, moles or bony areas. Injection sites must differ each time. Check the expiration date on the vial or pen. Do not use insulin that is cloudy or has particles floating in it. Roll the vial between palms or gently shake the insulin pen to mix the insulin. Wash hands and remove the top from the vial. Sterilize the rubber stopper with an alcohol pad. Take the cap off of the needle, and pull enough air into the syringe to equal the prescribed dose. Insert the needle into the vial and turn it upside down. Pull back on the syringe plunger, drawing in the correct amount of insulin. Check for air bubbles. Gently tap the side of the syringe until the bubbles float to the top, push the bubbles into the insulin vial. Draw up more insulin as needed. Wipe the injection site with an alcohol pad, pinch the skin, and insert the needle at a 90 degree angle. Push the plunger in all the way and wait for up to 5 seconds before removing the needle. Put slight pressure on the spot for 5 seconds. Recap the needle and place it in a medical waste container.

Warnings

• Do not take Lantus if you are allergic to insulin. Notify the doctor of any allergic reactions to insulin. Inform the doctor of any medications or supplements taken. They can change the way Lantus functions. Any changes in insulin dosage must be prescribed by a doctor. Test blood glucose levels as directed to prevent both hypoglycemic (too low blood sugar) and hyperglycemic (too high blood sugar) emergencies. Hypoglycemia can lead to a diabetic coma or death. Never reuse a syringe, mix Lantus with any other medications or dilute Lantus. Hypoglycemia is the most common side effect from insulin injections. Injection site reactions (change in fat tissue) and allergic reactions (itching, irritation and rash) may also occur.