Lantus is a type of insulin developed for individuals suffering from type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The medication works to lower blood sugar levels in the body over a long period. The medication comes in a vial and is a clear, thin liquid. When using Lantus insulin, it is important to eat the diet prescribed by your doctor and skip no meals. Using Lantus and not eating properly may cause your blood sugar to drop too low. Low blood sugar levels may cause symptoms such as confusion, seizures and coma.
General Guidelines
Step 1
Administer the medication once per day, because it works to lower blood sugar levels over 24 hours. Many individuals choose to take Lantus at bedtime. Be sure to wait 24 hours between doses of the medication.
Step 2
Rotate injection sites to avoid overuse of a specific area. Appropriate areas for injection include the abdomen, the back of the upper arm and the thigh. Be sure to place an injection at least 1 inch from a previous site recently used. Avoid using the same site more often than once per month.
Step 3
Follow the orders from your doctor to determine the dosage amount you require. The doctor determines the dosage based on your history of blood sugar levels.
Administration
Step 1
Wash your hands.
Step 2
Wipe the injection site with an alcohol wipe and allow the skin to dry.
Step 3
Prepare the injection. Wipe the top of the Lantus vial with an alcohol wipe and allow it to dry completely.
Step 4
Remove the cap from the insulin syringe and draw air into the syringe. Place the needle into the top of the vial and inject air. Draw back on the syringe plunger to draw Lantus into the syringe until the prescribed amount is in the syringe. Remove the needle from the vial. Tap out any small bubbles and eject any remaining air in the syringe.
Step 5
Pinch a fold of skin at the injection site to lift and hold the fat layer under the skin. Hold the syringe like a dart and insert the needle into the skin. Pull back on the plunger to ensure you are not in a blood vessel. Blood will appear in the syringe if this occurs. If there is no blood, press on the plunger to inject Lantus. Leave the needle in place for 10 seconds to ensure the insulin goes into your body. Remove the needle and apply pressure with your fingers to the injection site for a few seconds. Dispose of the needle in an appropriate container.
Tips and Warnings
- Store Lantus in the refrigerator between injections.
- Avoid reusing or sharing needles to prevent infection and the transmission of diseases such as HIV and hepatitis.
Things You'll Need
- Soap and water
- Alcohol wipes
- Insulin syringe
- Container for disposal
Member Comments