Lantus is a type of long acting insulin which is used to manage both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It is designed to be given at the same time each day because it acts for 24 hours. Lantus is available in traditional vials and in insulin pens. Lantus insulin pens are designed for convenience and ease of use. There are two Lantus insulin pens available, the SoloSTAR Pen and the OptiClik pen. Both devices operate similarly. One difference is that the Opticlik has to be loaded with an insulin cartridge, where the SoloSTAR comes preloaded.
Step 1
Verify that the insulin listed on the pen is the correct insulin as prescribed. Using the wrong type of insulin can be dangerous, resulting in insulin levels that are too high or dangerously low.
When using the OptiClik pen, press the dosage knob in completely. Insert the insulin cartridge into the pen until it clicks into place. Gently pull on the cartridge after insertion to ensure it was installed properly. It should not come out without pressing the release button.
Step 2
Clean the end of the insulin pen with an alcohol swab and attach a new needle either by screwing the needle into place, or simply pushing it into place. Remove the protective cap from the needle and keep it to discard the needle after injection.
Step 3
Perform a safety test on the insulin pen to remove air bubbles. Set the insulin pen to deliver 1 unit of insulin on the OptiClik pen, or 2 units on the SoloSTAR pen. Hold the pen with the needle pointing up and press the inject button. A drop of insulin should come out of the needle. If it does not, repeat this step.
Step 4
Set the dose for the number of units of insulin to be administered, as prescribed by a physician. Both pens feature a dosage knob which is turned until the desired numbers of units are displayed in the window.
Step 5
Deliver the injection by locating an area of skin on the outer arm, stomach or thigh. These areas all have a layer of fat underneath the skin, where the insulin is to be injected. Cleanse the skin with an alcohol swab. Pinch the skin where possible, such as for injections given on the stomach and thigh. Insert the needle straight into the skin. Depress the injection button completely and hold. Wait 10 seconds as the insulin is administered.
Step 6
Remove the needle from the skin by pulling straight out. Replace the needle cap to safely remove the needle and dispose of it.
Tips and Warnings
- Many doctors offices will dispose of used needles in their sharps container for patients to ensure needles don't end up in regular trash, which could put others at risk.
Things You'll Need
- Lantus insulin pen
- Alcohol swab
- Insulin cartridge
