BASAGLAR® (insulin glargine injection)

It is not known if Basaglar is safe and effective in children with type 2 diabetes or in children younger than 6 years with type 1 diabetes. There were no studies done with Basaglar in these groups of children. If your doctor decides to give your child Basaglar, he or she may give you special instructions.

What is Basaglar?

Basaglar (insulin glargine) is a long-lasting insulin to treat type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It begins working several hours after injection and continues to work evenly through the day up to 24 hours. Basaglar in an insulin than can be used in adults and children of at least 6 years old.

Insulin is a naturally produced hormone that works in the body to lower blood sugar (glucose) levels. For those with diabetes, this means their pancreas does not produce enough insulin or cannot properly used the insulin produced. As a result glucose accumulates in the bloodstream. When insulin is injected it helps lower blood sugar levels.

There are several types of insulin which differ on how they are absorbed and work over a period of time. Insulin glargine is long-acting insulin which can take 90 minutes to start and stop after about 24 hours. Insulin glargine is released slowly and constantly into the blood stream after injection.

Some brands of insulin glargine are used specifically for adults. It’s important to always follow instructions and review warnings before using your brand of insulin.

Do not share this medication with others even if they have the same condition. Insulin should be prescribed by your doctor.

What forms does Basaglar medication come in?

Cartridge

Each mL of this sterile solution contains 100 units of insulin glargine. It also contains nonmedical ingredients including: Hydrocloric acid & sodium hydroxide (to adjust pH), zinc oxide, m-cresol, glycerine and water for injection.

KwikPen

Each mL of this sterile solution contains 100 units of insulin glargine. It also contains nonmedical ingredients including: Hydrocloric acid & sodium hydroxide (to adjust pH), zinc oxide, m-cresol, glycerine and water for injection.

Warnings & Precautions

This medication should not be shared with other people. Even if the needle has been changed.

Do not use Basaglar if you’re experiencing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or diabetic ketoacidosis. Consult your doctor for treatment.

Basaglar should be used in combination with a healthy diet, exercise program, weight-loss program, foot care, dental care, eye car and regular blood testing. It’s crucial that this program is followed closely as they are all important factors in managing blood sugar level.

Side effects

If you are experiencing any serious side effects while using Basaglar insulin (insulin glargine) you should consult with your doctor. However, not all side effects will require medical attention.

Contact your doctor immediately if you are experiencing any of the following side effects:

More common side effects:

  • Anxiety
  • Mood changes similar to being intoxicated
  • Blurred vision
  • Chills
  • Cold Sweats
  • Confusion
  • Cool, pale skin
  • Difficulty thinking
  • Lighteadedness or dizziness
  • Strong hunger
  • Increased heartbeat
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Nightmares
  • Seizures
  • Restless sleep
  • Nervousness
  • Slurred speech
  • Shakiness
  • Tingling in hands, feet, tongue and/or lips
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Weight gain
  • Visual impairment, retinopathy

Rare Side Effects:

  • Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
  • Fast pulse
  • Skin irritations or itching on the entire body
  • Sweating
  • Difficulty breathing

More common side effects:

  • Fever
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Sore throat
  • Low blood sugar
  • Mild itching and/or skin rash
  • skin hollowing or thickening at injection site
  • Hypertension
  • Peripheral edema

The side effects associated with Basaglar insulin (insulin glargine) listed above are not a complete list. If you feel any serious symptoms or complications call your doctor immediately. You can report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Usage

You should use Basalgar (insulin glargine) as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. Do not modify dosage amounts as they can result in serious side effects.

Review all medical guides, patient information and instruction sheets as directed. If you have any questions speed to your pharmacist or doctor.

Basaglar insulin glargine is injected under the skin (subcutaneously). Do not inject in the same place or where skin is damaged.

Do not inject insulin directly into a muscle or vein; or inject into skin that is damaged, pitted, bruised, tender, scaly, thickened, scarred or has lumps.

Inject once per day at the same time each day.

Your doctor, nurse or health care provider will show you the proper way to inject this medication and how to dispose of needles or syringes.

This medication should not be taken by insulin pump or when mixed with other insulin.

Use the disposable pen only once. When disposing medication do not throw in the trash or down wastewater. Ask your pharmacist about getting a “sharps” disposal container to be used for disposing needles.

Keep out of reach from children and pets.

If you feel like you’re experiencing low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) consume a fast-acting source of sugar like a sugar packet, hard candy, raisins or fruity drink. A glucagon injection kit might be prescribed by your doctor in case of emergency for severe hypoglycemia. You should instruct family and friends on how to inject this medication if you would happen to need it in an emergency situation.

Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly. These levels can be affected by stress, exercise, alcohol consumption, surgery or skipping meals.

Toujeo vs Basaglar

The Toujeo brand of insulin glargine contains 3 times the amount of insulin per millilter (mL) when compared to the Basaglar brand.