From the Guidelines
Lantus should be refrigerated when not in use to maintain its potency and prevent degradation. When considering the storage of Lantus, it's crucial to follow specific guidelines to ensure the medication remains effective. According to the study published in Diabetes Care 1, vials of insulin not in use should be refrigerated to prevent loss of potency, clumping, frosting, or precipitation. Key points to consider for the storage of Lantus include:
- Refrigeration at temperatures between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C) when not in use
- Avoiding extreme temperatures (<36 or >86°F, <2 or >30°C) and excess agitation
- Keeping insulin in use at room temperature to limit local irritation at the injection site
- Discarding opened insulin after a certain period, as specified by the manufacturer, to ensure potency
- Always checking the appearance of Lantus before use, ensuring it is clear and colorless, and not using it if it appears cloudy, discolored, or contains particles. It's essential to prioritize the patient's safety and the medication's efficacy by adhering to these storage guidelines, as supported by the study 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Unopened (not in-use) Insulin Glargine vials Store unused Insulin Glargine vials in the refrigerator from 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) After Insulin Glargine vials have been opened (in-use) Store in-use (opened) Insulin Glargine vials in a refrigerator from 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) or at room temperature below 86°F (30°C) for up to 28 days.
Storage of Lantus: Lantus (Insulin Glargine) should be refrigerated at a temperature between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) when unopened. After opening, it can be stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature below 86°F (30°C) for up to 28 days 2.
From the Research
Storage Requirements for Lantus
- Lantus is a type of insulin glargine, which is a long-acting basal insulin analogue.
- According to the study 3, acceptable storage information for products requiring storage at temperatures below room temperature was compiled, but it does not specifically mention Lantus.
- However, it is generally recommended to store insulin glargine in the refrigerator at a temperature between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F) until the expiration date or until opened.
- Once opened, insulin glargine can be stored at room temperature (up to 25°C or 77°F) for a certain period, usually up to 28 days, but this may vary depending on the specific product and manufacturer's instructions.
Comparison with Other Insulin Analogues
- Studies 4, 5, and 6 compared the efficacy and safety of different long-acting insulin analogues, including insulin glargine, insulin detemir, and insulin degludec.
- These studies did not specifically address the storage requirements for Lantus, but they provided information on the pharmacological properties and clinical outcomes of these insulin analogues.
- Another study 7 found that switching from twice-daily glargine or detemir to once-daily degludec improved glucose control in type 1 diabetes, but it did not discuss storage requirements.
Conclusion on Storage Requirements
- Based on the available evidence, it is recommended to store Lantus in the refrigerator until opened and to follow the manufacturer's instructions for storage after opening.
- However, the studies provided do not offer specific guidance on the storage requirements for Lantus, and it is essential to consult the product label or manufacturer's instructions for detailed information.