From the Research
Lantus (insulin glargine) SoloStar pens are compatible with BD Ultra-Fine needles, Novo Nordisk needles, and other standard pen needles that follow ISO standards for insulin pen needles. The most commonly used needle sizes are 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, 8mm, and 12.7mm in length, with gauge sizes typically ranging from 29G to 32G (the higher the gauge number, the thinner the needle) 1. For most patients, shorter needles (4mm or 5mm) are recommended as they provide sufficient depth to deliver insulin into the subcutaneous tissue while minimizing the risk of intramuscular injection. These shorter needles are also generally less painful. Pen needles are designed for single use only and should be removed and discarded after each injection to maintain sterility and prevent infection. The SoloStar pen is designed with a universal needle attachment system, so most standard insulin pen needles will fit properly. When purchasing needles, look for those specifically labeled as compatible with insulin pens or that mention compatibility with SoloStar pens to ensure proper fit and function.
Some key points to consider when selecting needles for use with Lantus SoloStar pens include:
- Needle length: 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, 8mm, and 12.7mm are common lengths, with shorter needles recommended for most patients 1
- Gauge size: 29G to 32G, with higher gauge numbers indicating thinner needles 1
- Compatibility: Look for needles specifically labeled as compatible with insulin pens or SoloStar pens 1
- Single use: Pen needles should be removed and discarded after each injection to maintain sterility and prevent infection
It's worth noting that while there are various studies on the topic, the most recent and highest quality study 1 provides the most relevant information on needle compatibility with Lantus SoloStar pens. This study compared the dose accuracy and injection force of different insulin glargine pens, including the SoloStar pen, and found that all tested pens delivered comparable average doses within the DIN EN ISO 11608-1:2000 limits at all dosage levels. However, the study also noted that the SoloStar pen had a lower injection force compared to some other pens, making it a suitable option for patients with diabetes.