Lantus is the Brand Name for Insulin Glargine
Yes, Lantus is the brand name for insulin glargine. 1, 2 Insulin glargine is a long-acting human insulin analog produced by recombinant DNA technology that provides basal insulin coverage for approximately 24 hours.
Key Features of Insulin Glargine (Lantus)
- Lantus (insulin glargine) is a once-daily basal insulin analog with a smooth 24-hour time-action profile 3
- It is manufactured by modification of the human insulin molecule at position A21 and at the C-terminus of the B-chain, resulting in a stable compound that forms microprecipitates in subcutaneous tissue from which small amounts are gradually released 4
- Unlike intermediate-acting insulins (such as NPH), insulin glargine has no pronounced peak action time, providing more consistent insulin levels 5
- Insulin glargine is indicated to improve glycemic control in both adult and pediatric patients with diabetes mellitus 1
Pharmacokinetic Properties
- Onset of action: approximately 1 hour 5
- Peak: None (peakless profile) 5
- Duration of action: up to 24 hours 5
- The relatively constant basal level of circulating insulin without pronounced peaks makes it suitable for once-daily dosing 2
Clinical Advantages
- Insulin glargine is absorbed more consistently than intermediate-acting insulins like NPH 5
- Studies have shown reduced risk of hypoglycemia, especially nocturnal hypoglycemia, compared to NPH insulin 5, 3
- In patients with type 1 diabetes, insulin glargine has been associated with significantly lower fasting blood glucose levels compared to NPH insulin 2
- The reduced risk of hypoglycemia can facilitate more aggressive insulin treatment to reach target HbA1c levels 3
Practical Considerations
- Insulin glargine should be administered subcutaneously once daily at the same time every day 1
- In type 1 diabetes, insulin glargine must be used concomitantly with short-acting insulin 1
- In type 2 diabetes, it can be used alone or in combination with oral antidiabetic agents 4
- Insulin glargine is available in vials and SoloStar prefilled pens under the brand name Lantus 1
Lantus was the first long-acting insulin analog to receive FDA approval and represented a significant advancement in basal insulin therapy, offering more physiologic insulin replacement than traditional intermediate-acting insulins 6.