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Long-acting insulin analogs are useful for people with diabetes who need to manage their blood sugar levels throughout the day and night. Two commonly prescribed options are Basaglar and Lantus, which contain insulin glargine. These insulins work by mimicking the body’s natural basal insulin release.

When comparing Basaglar vs. Lantus, several factors determine which is better for you. While both are effective, they differ in cost, delivery methods, and insurance coverage. Lantus is the original insulin glargine, while Basaglar is a follow-on biologic that may require a separate prescription. Explore the similarities and differences between these long-acting insulins and determine which suits you best.

Key Takeaways

  • Basaglar and Lantus are long-acting insulin glargine injections that offer blood sugar control for up to 24 hours.
  • Basaglar comes in KwikPen and Tempo Pen formats, while Lantus uses vials and the SoloStar pen.
  • Basaglar is a follow-on biologic — similar to a copy — and requires a separate prescription for switching. Lantus is the original insulin glargine approved in 2000.
  • In terms of cost, Basaglar is typically more affordable than Lantus, making it a common alternative for patients concerned about their medication cost.
  • Lantus and Basaglar aren’t directly interchangeable, but biosimilars to Lantus and other long-acting insulin substitutes are available.

Are Lantus and Basaglar Interchangeable?

Basaglar and Lantus are long-acting insulins containing insulin glargine, a synthetic hormone used to manage blood sugar in people with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. They work nearly the same way — releasing insulin slowly throughout the day and night to help control glucose levels. Studies show they have similar clinical effectiveness, meaning most patients experience comparable blood sugar control with either option.

That said, can you interchange Lantus and Basaglar? While their action profiles are nearly identical, they aren’t automatically interchangeable at the pharmacy level because Basaglar is a follow-on biologic, not a true biosimilar under FDA definitions. This means you’ll need a doctor’s prescription to switch between them.

Basaglar vs. Lantus: Similarities and Differences

This table compares the similarities and differences between Basaglar and Lantus.

Feature Basaglar Lantus
Active Ingredient Insulin glargine Insulin glargine
Drug Class Long-acting insulin analog Long-acting insulin analog (original brand)
Approval Status Follow-on biologic approved by the FDA Original FDA-approved long-acting insulin glargine
Used For Approved for children aged 6 and older with Type 1 diabetes and adults with Type 2 diabetes Approved for children aged 6 and older with Type 1 diabetes and adults with Type 2 diabetes
Onset of Action 1.5 – 2 hours 1.5 – 2 hours
Peak Activity Relatively flat; minimal peak Relatively flat; minimal peak
Duration of Action Up to 24 hours Up to 24 hours
Dosing Frequency Once daily, at the same time each day Once daily, at the same time each day
Delivery Devices KwikPen, Tempo Pen Vials and SoloStar Pen
Side Effects Hypoglycemia, weight gain, injection site reaction, lipodystrophy Hypoglycemia, weight gain, injection site reaction, lipodystrophy
Manufacturer Eli Lilly and Company Sanofi
Cost Comparison Generally less expensive than Lantus Often more costly as the original brand

Basaglar is a follow-on biologic to Lantus. While not a generic version, it’s highly similar in structure, safety, and effectiveness. In general, there are no significant differences in how Basaglar and Lantus work or how effective they are.

Doctors often prescribe Basaglar as a more affordable option, but both are considered reliable treatments for managing diabetes.

Mechanism of Action

Insulin Glargine Vial

Basaglar and Lantus work nearly the same way to boost glycemic control in children and adults with diabetes. Their active ingredient — insulin glargine — is a recombinant human insulin analog that mimics the body’s natural and steady insulin release.

Once injected under the skin, insulin glargine forms microcrystals that slowly dissolve over time. This mechanism allows it to control insulin release to regulate blood glucose for up to 24 hours while reducing the risk of sudden blood sugar drops.

Basaglar and Lantus keep fasting blood sugar stable between meals and during sleep. While they differ in branding and approval pathways — Basaglar is a follow-on biologic to Lantus — their mechanism of action is virtually the same, making them interchangeable for many patients under a doctor’s guidance.

Basaglar vs. Lantus Dosage and Administration

Basaglar and Lantus are injected once daily in the abdominal area, thigh, or deltoid to control blood glucose.

Basaglar comes in a U-100 (100 units/mL) concentration and available in the following single-patient-use forms:

    • 3 mL Basaglar KwikPen
    • 3 mL Basaglar Tempo Pen

Some people compare Basaglar Tempo vs. KwikPen. Both are prefilled injection pens that contain insulin glargine, but the Tempo Pen connects to a smartphone app for ease of dose tracking — a convenient feature for tech-savvy patients. This feature is not available with the KwikPen. If you need help monitoring your insulin dose, choosing the Tempo Pen may be a better option.

Meanwhile, Lantus is available in 100 units/mL (U-100) strength that comes as:

    • 10 mL multiple-dose vial
    • 3 mL single-patient-use SoloStar prefilled pen

Regarding onset, both insulins begin working within 1.5 to 2 hours after injection, with effects lasting up to 24 hours with no peak.

There are no major differences in formulation that can affect Basaglar vs. Lantus performance, but patient preferences vary — many prefer the convenience of pen injectors over vials. Furthermore, the app tracking for Tempo Pen increases treatment adherence for those who tend to forget their doses.

Recommended Doses for Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

Your doctor will customize your dose depending on the type of diabetes you have, prior insulin use, and the level of glycemic control you need.

The recommended Basaglar and Lantus dose for patients with Type 1 diabetes is approximately one-third of their total daily insulin needs, plus short-acting insulin to control post-meal spikes.

For patients with Type 2 diabetes, the recommended dose is 0.2 units/kg or up to 10 units once daily.

Basaglar vs. Lantus Side Effects

Feel on Weight Scale

Like any medication, using Basaglar and Lantus for diabetes can lead to adverse reactions that vary from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects

Both insulins share common side effects, which include:

    • Hypoglycemia
    • Allergic reactions
    • Pruritus
    • Rash
    • Edema
    • Injection site reaction
    • Lipodystrophy
    • Weight gain

Severe Side Effects

Basaglar and Lantus are associated with serious health risks that include:

    • Hyperglycemia
    • Hypoglycemia
    • Hypersensitivity reactions
    • Hypokalemia
    • Fluid retention and heart failure

These serious adverse reactions are rare. If you are susceptible to any of these conditions, let your doctor know so they can adjust your diabetes management plan.

Neither Basaglar nor Lantus is recommended to treat diabetic ketoacidosis. This diabetes complication happens when the body starts breaking down fat for energy, which results in the buildup of harmful acids called ketones. 

Cost and Insurance Coverage

Without insurance, Basaglar and Lantus can be expensive. On average, Lantus Solostar Pens cost $550 in local pharmacies, whereas Basaglar KwikPens cost $399.

When comparing Basaglar cost vs. Lantus, the former is generally more affordable. Both are long-acting insulins with similar effectiveness, but Basaglar is a follow-on biologic, often priced lower than Lantus.

Regarding insurance coverage, both insulins are widely included on many formularies, but Basaglar is often listed in lower tiers, leading to lower copays. For this reason, some patients may switch from Lantus to Basaglar to reduce their out-of-pocket expenses.

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In general, Basaglar costs less per month without insurance, depending on the pharmacy and available discounts.

Affordability is a major deciding factor for those evaluating Basaglar vs. Lantus cost. Patients who are prescribed Lantus but need a more budget-friendly alternative may consider Basaglar. However, get your doctor’s advice before switching to ensure a smooth and safe transition.

Switching From Lantus to Basaglar

Basaglar KwikPen and Package on Countertop

Some patients consider switching from Lantus to Basaglar due to cost or insurance coverage. Most who switch report no significant changes in their blood sugar levels.

When transitioning, Basaglar and Lantus dose conversion is typically done on a unit-to-unit basis, meaning you’ll likely start with the same dose. However, since slight differences in formulation or pen devices may affect individual experiences, it’s best to confirm your new dose with your doctor. When starting a new insulin regimen, ensure you closely monitor your glucose levels during the first few weeks.

Never change insulin brands without your doctor’s guidance, as it may cause unexpected side effects. 

Alternatives to Basaglar and Lantus

If neither Basaglar nor Lantus is suitable or available, your doctor may recommend a similar-acting medication. What insulin can replace Lantus? Lantus has biosimilars that are directly interchangeable at the pharmacy.

Interchangeable Biosimilars to Lantus

    • Semglee: First interchangeable biosimilar to Lantus approved in July 2021
    • Rezvoglar: Second interchangeable biosimilar approved in December 2021

Basaglar Alternatives

Some substitutes for Basaglar include other long-acting insulins, such as:

    • Toujeo: A long-acting insulin that contains insulin glargine
    • Tresiba: Contains insulin degludec
    • Levemir: Contains insulin detemir

When comparing Basaglar vs. Levemir, one key difference is their base formula. Levemir contains insulin detemir, which may require twice-daily injections for patients taking lower doses.

Each Basaglar substitute offers unique benefits. Therefore, consult your doctor to determine the best choice that depends on your lifestyle and health needs.

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Which Is Better, Basaglar or Lantus?

Basaglar and Lantus are long-acting insulins that contain insulin glargine, designed to stabilize blood glucose for 24 hours. They’re both safe and effective to use, making them viable treatment options for diabetes. However, slight differences like their price may affect your choice.

Lantus is the original brand and may offer broader insurance coverage. Basaglar, as a follow-on biologic, is often more affordable and may come with savings programs.

When deciding between Basaglar vs. Lantus for diabetes, consider important factors like cost, lifestyle, and availability for long-term sustainability. Both are reliable, but your individual needs will determine the best fit. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your insulin regimen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the active ingredient in Basaglar is insulin glargine. However, Basaglar is a specific brand of insulin glargine and not the only one available. For instance, Lantus also contains insulin glargine.

Lantus and Basaglar are clinically similar, but you can’t automatically interchange them at the pharmacy. While they provide similar benefits and side effects, you need your doctor’s prescription when switching between them.

Semglee and Rezvoglar are FDA-approved biosimilars to Lantus that are directly interchangeable with it. Long-acting insulins like Basaglar, Levemir, and Toujeo are potential alternatives, depending on your needs and your doctor’s recommendation.

Basaglar is a long-acting insulin that provides steady blood sugar control for up to 24 hours.

Yes, Basaglar is a form of insulin glargine. It’s specifically developed as a follow-on biologic to Lantus, primarily for patients seeking a more affordable substitute.

Basaglar’s generic name is insulin glargine.

No, Lantus and Basaglar are different brands of insulin glargine. They work in similar ways and cause the same adverse reactions, but aren’t directly interchangeable.

Original Publish Date: 5/29/2023 – Updated 6/04/2025