Common Side Effects

There are a few documented common side effects to using Lantus Solostar, including redness, swelling, itching, or mild pain at the injection area, which is to be expected, since puncturing the skin is still a form of trauma, although a very minor one. These symptoms, however, do go away in a very short while. If any of these side effects persist well after an injection, consult with your doctor.

Severe Side Effects

In some cases, there are people who exhibit more severe reactions to a dosage of the Lantus Solostar insulin delivery system, including severe allergic reactions such as severe itching, or the appearance of a rash, or hives. There are also documented reports of difficulty in breathing, pressure or tightness in the chest, pronounced swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue, noticeable changes in vision, sudden chills. Some people have reportedly experienced confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, fainting spells, increased heartbeat rate, short or shallow breathing, headaches, hoarseness of voice, noticeable increase in hunger or thirst, increased urination, nervousness or anxiety, seizures, slurred speech, stomach pain or cramps, profuse sweating, noticeable sweet or fruity breath odor, swelling of the arms or legs, tremors, and general weakness. These symptoms may be due to a sudden drop in the blood sugar level of the body, which is a serious condition. Should any of these symptoms be noticed, consult with your doctor immediately.

Safety Information

Lantus is contraindicated against patients who happen to be hypersensitive to insulin glargine or one of its excipients. Lantus must never be diluted or mixed with any other insulin compound or solution, as the solution may become cloudy, and this may significantly effect the the onset of action of the solution. Do not use any other method to administer Lantus, such as insulin pumps or intravenously because severe hypoglycemia can occur. Remember that insulin devices and needles must never be shared with other patients.Blood glucose levels in patients treated with insulin must be closely monitored for any notable variations. A sudden drop in blood sugar levels could indicate hypoglycemia, which could also be dangerous.

Interactions

Certain medications, food stuffs, food supplements, and frequent bodily activities may affect glucose metabolism, and this in turn may require an insulin dose adjustment. Be sure to closely monitor blood glucose in cases like these. Patients taking anti- adrenergic drugs such as beta-blockers, clonidine, guanethidine, and reserpine may exhibit reduced signs of possible hypoglycemia, so be sure to consult with your doctor before taking any medication alongside another. Inform your doctor before being prescribed the Lantus Solostar system if you have liver or kidney issues, is currently breastfeeding, or are pregnant or intend to become pregnant soon.

Generic Alternatives

The generic name and formulation of Lantus is Insulin glargine (recombinant) 100 IU/ml; injectable; contains m-cresol. There are, however, no generic versions as yet of Lantus Solostar, mainly because it is classified as a biologic drug, which US law prohibits from being manufactured in generic versions.