Toujeo Max SoloStar Dosing Specifications
Maximum Dose Per Injection
The Toujeo Max SoloStar pen can deliver a maximum single dose of 160 units of insulin glargine 300 U/mL (Toujeo), with a total cartridge capacity of 900 units (3 mL × 300 U/mL). 1
Key Dosing Parameters
Pen Specifications
- Dose range per injection: 1-160 units in 2-unit increments 1
- Total pen capacity: 900 units (3 mL cartridge) 1
- Concentration: 300 units/mL 1, 2
This contrasts with the standard Toujeo SoloStar pen, which delivers 1-80 units per injection in 1-unit increments 1.
Clinical Dosing Considerations
When transitioning from Lantus (insulin glargine 100 U/mL) to Toujeo, patients typically require approximately 10-18% higher daily doses due to the different pharmacokinetic profiles, though the FDA label recommends starting at 80% of the Lantus dose. 1, 2
- Toujeo provides a flatter, more prolonged pharmacodynamic profile with duration exceeding 24 hours 3, 2
- The two formulations are not bioequivalent and require dose adjustment when switching 3
Practical Dosing Limits
While there is no absolute maximum daily dose of Toujeo specified in guidelines, when basal insulin requirements exceed 0.5-1.0 units/kg/day without achieving glycemic targets, adding prandial insulin or GLP-1 receptor agonists becomes more appropriate than continuing to escalate basal insulin alone. 4, 5
For a typical adult weighing 70-100 kg, this translates to approximately 35-100 units daily as a practical threshold before intensification 4.
Administration Guidelines
- Administer once daily at the same time each day (morning or evening) 1, 6
- Do not dilute or mix with other insulins 1
- Rotate injection sites within abdomen, thigh, or deltoid to prevent lipodystrophy 1
- Never share pens between patients even with needle changes 1
Clinical Advantages of Toujeo vs Lantus
Toujeo demonstrates significantly lower rates of nocturnal hypoglycemia (<54 mg/dL) compared to Lantus, particularly in insulin-experienced patients with type 2 diabetes, making it preferable for patients with recurrent nocturnal hypoglycemia. 5, 2
- More stable 24-hour coverage with reduced glucose variability 5, 3
- Greater flexibility in injection timing 3
- Slightly less weight gain 3
Common Pitfall to Avoid
Do not assume unit-for-unit equivalence when switching from Lantus to Toujeo—patients consistently require higher daily doses with Toujeo (typically 10-18% more) to achieve equivalent glycemic control. 3, 2