Insuln Glargne Solstr U300 PN 1.5ml

Manufacturer WINTHROP, US Active Ingredient Insulin Glargine (U-300) Pens(IN soo lin GLAR jeen) Pronunciation IN-soo-lin GLAR-jeen
It is used to lower blood sugar in patients with high blood sugar (diabetes).
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Drug Class
Antidiabetic agent
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Pharmacologic Class
Long-acting insulin analog
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Pregnancy Category
Not applicable (PLLR applies)
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FDA Approved
Feb 2015
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DEA Schedule
Not Controlled

Overview

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What is this medicine?

Insulin glargine U-300 is a long-acting insulin that helps control your blood sugar levels throughout the day and night. It works by replacing the insulin your body normally makes, helping glucose (sugar) move from your blood into your cells for energy. It is given as a shot under the skin, usually once a day.
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How to Use This Medicine

Proper Use of This Medication

To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. This medication is administered via injection into the fatty tissue under the skin, typically in the thigh, abdominal area, or upper arm. If you will be self-administering the injection, your doctor or nurse will provide guidance on the proper technique.

Before use, wash your hands thoroughly. If you take this medication once daily, you can administer it at any time of day, but be sure to take it at the same time every day. Rotate the injection site with each use to avoid damaging the skin.

Important Administration Guidelines

Avoid injecting into skin that is thickened, has pits or lumps, or is irritated, tender, bruised, red, scaly, hard, scarred, or has stretch marks.
Do not use the medication if the solution appears cloudy, is leaking, or contains particles, or if the solution has changed color.
Remove all pen needle covers before injecting a dose. If you are unsure about the type of pen needle you have or how to use it, consult your doctor.
Do not transfer the medication from the pen to a syringe.
You may hear a clicking sound when preparing the dose, but do not rely on the clicks to determine the correct dose.
After each injection, remove the needle and do not store the device with the needle attached.
Dispose of used needles in a designated sharps disposal container. Do not reuse needles or other items, and follow local regulations for disposing of the container when it is full.

Additional Important Information

Do not mix this insulin with other types of insulin or liquids in the same syringe.
Follow the diet and exercise plan recommended by your doctor.
This medication is not suitable for use in an insulin pump. If you have questions, consult your doctor.

Storage and Disposal

Store unopened pens in the refrigerator, but do not freeze. If the medication has been frozen, do not use it.
If an unopened container has been stored at room temperature, consult your doctor or pharmacist to determine how long it can be safely used.
Store opened pens at room temperature, but do not refrigerate. Discard any unused medication after 56 days.

Missed Dose Instructions

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
If it is close to the time for your next injection, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.
Do not take two doses at the same time or extra doses. If you are unsure about what to do if you miss a dose, consult your doctor.
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Lifestyle & Tips

  • Administer insulin glargine U-300 once daily at the same time each day.
  • Always check the insulin label carefully before each injection to avoid medication errors (e.g., confusing U-100 with U-300, or other insulins).
  • Rotate injection sites within the same region (e.g., abdomen, thigh, upper arm) to reduce the risk of lipodystrophy (skin thickening or pitting). Do not inject into areas of lipodystrophy or scarred skin.
  • Never share insulin pens or needles with other people, even if the needle is changed. This can transmit infections.
  • Do not mix insulin glargine U-300 with any other insulin or solution.
  • Follow a healthy diet plan and engage in regular physical activity as advised by your healthcare provider.
  • Monitor your blood glucose levels regularly as instructed by your doctor.
  • Always carry a source of fast-acting sugar (e.g., glucose tablets, fruit juice, hard candy) to treat mild to moderate hypoglycemia.
  • Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as they can affect blood sugar levels.

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: Once daily, at the same time each day. Dose is individualized based on metabolic needs, blood glucose monitoring results, and glycemic control goal. Typically initiated at 0.2 units/kg/day or 1/3 to 1/2 of total daily insulin dose for type 1 diabetes, or 0.2 units/kg/day for type 2 diabetes, then titrated.

Condition-Specific Dosing:

Type 1 Diabetes: Initial dose is approximately one-third to one-half of the total daily insulin dose. The remainder of the total daily insulin dose should be administered as a short-acting insulin prior to meals.
Type 2 Diabetes: Initial dose is 0.2 units/kg once daily. Titrate based on fasting plasma glucose (FPG) targets.
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Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Not established
Infant: Not established
Child: Approved for children 6 years and older with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Dosing is individualized, similar to adults, based on metabolic needs and blood glucose monitoring.
Adolescent: Approved for adolescents 6 years and older with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Dosing is individualized, similar to adults, based on metabolic needs and blood glucose monitoring.
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Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: No specific dose adjustment recommended, but monitor glucose closely as insulin requirements may decrease.
Moderate: No specific dose adjustment recommended, but monitor glucose closely as insulin requirements may decrease.
Severe: No specific dose adjustment recommended, but monitor glucose closely as insulin requirements may decrease. Increased risk of hypoglycemia.
Dialysis: Insulin requirements may be reduced. Close glucose monitoring and dose titration are essential.

Hepatic Impairment:

Mild: No specific dose adjustment recommended, but monitor glucose closely as insulin requirements may decrease.
Moderate: No specific dose adjustment recommended, but monitor glucose closely as insulin requirements may decrease.
Severe: No specific dose adjustment recommended, but monitor glucose closely as insulin requirements may decrease. Increased risk of hypoglycemia.

Pharmacology

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Mechanism of Action

Insulin glargine is a long-acting human insulin analog. It lowers blood glucose by stimulating peripheral glucose uptake, especially by skeletal muscle and fat, and by inhibiting hepatic glucose production. Insulin inhibits lipolysis and proteolysis, and enhances protein synthesis.
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Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Bioavailability: Not directly quantifiable due to subcutaneous administration and variable absorption rates; however, it is designed for slow, sustained absorption.
Tmax: Approximately 6 hours (for U-300), but exhibits a prolonged and relatively flat concentration-time profile with no pronounced peak.
FoodEffect: Not applicable for subcutaneous insulin administration.

Distribution:

Vd: Not directly reported for insulin glargine, but insulin generally distributes into extracellular fluid.
ProteinBinding: Low (approximately 6% for insulin glargine).
CnssPenetration: Limited

Elimination:

HalfLife: Functional half-life is prolonged due to slow absorption from the subcutaneous depot, contributing to its extended duration of action (up to 36 hours).
Clearance: Not directly reported for insulin glargine, but insulin is cleared primarily by the liver and kidney.
ExcretionRoute: Renal (metabolites)
Unchanged: Minimal
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Approximately 6 hours (gradual onset)
PeakEffect: No pronounced peak (flat profile)
DurationOfAction: Up to 36 hours

Safety & Warnings

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Side Effects

Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away

Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:

Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever)
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of low potassium levels, including:
+ Muscle pain or weakness
+ Muscle cramps
+ Abnormal heartbeat
Signs of infection, such as:
+ Fever
+ Chills
+ Severe sore throat
+ Ear or sinus pain
+ Cough
+ Increased or discolored sputum
+ Painful urination
+ Mouth sores
+ Wounds that won't heal
Signs of high blood pressure, including:
+ Severe headache or dizziness
+ Fainting
+ Changes in vision
Thick skin, pits, or lumps at the injection site
Swelling in the arms or legs
Low blood sugar, which may cause:
+ Dizziness or fainting
+ Blurred vision
+ Mood changes
+ Slurred speech
+ Headache
+ Feeling sleepy or weak
+ Shaking
+ Rapid heartbeat
+ Confusion
+ Hunger
+ Sweating
+ Seizures

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. If you have low blood sugar, follow your doctor's instructions, which may include taking glucose tablets, liquid glucose, or consuming certain fruit juices.

Other Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. Contact your doctor or seek medical help if you experience any of the following side effects or if they persist or bother you:

Irritation at the injection site
Back pain
Diarrhea
Headache
Weight gain
Common cold symptoms
Nose or throat irritation
Flu-like symptoms
Joint pain
* Pain in the arms or legs

This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:

  • Symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): sweating, dizziness, lightheadedness, tremor, palpitations, anxiety, hunger, confusion, irritability, headache, blurred vision, slurred speech, weakness. Seek immediate medical attention if severe.
  • Symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia): increased thirst, increased urination, dry mouth, fatigue, blurred vision. Contact your doctor if these symptoms persist.
  • Allergic reactions: rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing. Seek emergency medical attention.
  • Injection site reactions: redness, swelling, itching, pain, or lumps at the injection site. Report persistent or severe reactions.
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Before Using This Medicine

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
Certain health conditions, including:
+ Acidic blood problems
+ Low blood sugar

This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your health problems with your doctor.

Additionally, provide your doctor and pharmacist with a comprehensive list of all the medications you are taking, including:
Prescription medications
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications
Natural products
Vitamins

It is vital to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your other medications and health conditions. Do not initiate, discontinue, or modify the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
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Precautions & Cautions

Important Warnings and Cautions

It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication.

Correct Use and Dosage

This brand of insulin has a concentrated formula, containing 3 times as much insulin as other brands. It is available in a prefilled pen, which must be used to administer the correct dose. Do not attempt to remove insulin from the pen using a syringe, as this can lead to severe side effects or life-threatening hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). To ensure safe use, consult with your doctor to confirm the correct dosage.

Risks and Side Effects

Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): This medication can cause hypoglycemia, which may lead to seizures, loss of consciousness, permanent brain damage, or even death if left untreated. Discuss your risk with your doctor.
Hypokalemia (Low Blood Potassium): This medication can also cause hypokalemia, which may result in abnormal heart rhythms, severe breathing difficulties, or death if not treated promptly. Consult with your doctor if you have concerns.
Increased Risk of Heart Failure: When used with certain diabetes medications, such as pioglitazone or rosiglitazone, this insulin may increase the risk of heart failure or worsen existing heart failure. If you are taking one of these medications, discuss this risk with your doctor.

Precautions and Safety Measures

Avoid Driving and Other Hazardous Activities: Until you understand how this medication affects you, avoid driving and other tasks that require alertness.
Verify Insulin Product and Dosage: Ensure you have the correct insulin product and understand how to measure and prepare your dose. If you have questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Stress and Blood Sugar Control: During times of stress, such as illness, injury, or surgery, your blood sugar levels may be more challenging to control. Changes in physical activity, exercise, or diet can also impact blood sugar levels.
Medical Alert Identification: Wear a medical alert ID to inform others of your condition in case of an emergency.
Blood Sugar Monitoring: Check your blood sugar levels as directed by your doctor.
Regular Blood Work: Have regular blood tests as recommended by your doctor to monitor your condition.

Special Considerations

Alcohol Consumption: Consult with your doctor before consuming alcohol or using products containing alcohol.
Sharing Insulin Products: Do not share your insulin product, including pens, cartridge devices, needles, or syringes, as this can transmit infections.
Use in Children and Older Adults: This medication should be used with caution in children, as they may experience more side effects. Older adults (65 and older) should also use this medication with caution, as they may be more susceptible to side effects.
* Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, discuss the benefits and risks of this medication with your doctor.
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Overdose Information

Overdose Symptoms:

  • Severe hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar)
  • Hypokalemia (low potassium levels)

What to Do:

Mild hypoglycemia can be treated by oral glucose. Severe hypoglycemia requires immediate administration of glucagon (intramuscular or subcutaneous) or intravenous glucose. Hypokalemia should be corrected. Call 911 or 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control Center) immediately.

Drug Interactions

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Major Interactions

  • Beta-blockers (may mask symptoms of hypoglycemia, prolong recovery from hypoglycemia)
  • Thiazolidinediones (TZDs) - e.g., pioglitazone, rosiglitazone (increased risk of fluid retention and heart failure when used with insulin)
  • Corticosteroids (may increase blood glucose, requiring higher insulin doses)
  • Diuretics (especially thiazide and loop diuretics, may cause hyperglycemia)
  • Sympathomimetics (e.g., albuterol, epinephrine, may increase blood glucose)
  • Atypical antipsychotics (e.g., olanzapine, clozapine, may cause hyperglycemia)
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Moderate Interactions

  • ACE inhibitors (may enhance insulin's glucose-lowering effect)
  • Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) (may enhance insulin's glucose-lowering effect)
  • Salicylates (e.g., aspirin, may enhance insulin's glucose-lowering effect at high doses)
  • Sulfonamide antibiotics (may enhance insulin's glucose-lowering effect)
  • Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) (may enhance insulin's glucose-lowering effect)
  • Alcohol (can potentiate or diminish insulin's effect, increasing risk of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia)
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Minor Interactions

  • Not specifically categorized as minor for insulin, as most interactions affect glucose levels significantly.

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

HbA1c

Rationale: To establish baseline glycemic control and set treatment goals.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.

Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG)

Rationale: To establish baseline glucose levels and guide initial dosing.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.

Renal function (eGFR, BUN, Creatinine)

Rationale: To assess kidney function, as insulin requirements may decrease in renal impairment.

Timing: Prior to initiation, especially in elderly or those with risk factors.

Hepatic function (ALT, AST, Bilirubin)

Rationale: To assess liver function, as insulin requirements may decrease in hepatic impairment.

Timing: Prior to initiation, especially in those with risk factors.

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Routine Monitoring

Blood Glucose (Self-Monitoring)

Frequency: Daily, multiple times a day (e.g., fasting, pre-meal, bedtime) as directed by healthcare provider.

Target: Individualized, typically 80-130 mg/dL (fasting/pre-meal) for most non-pregnant adults.

Action Threshold: Below target (hypoglycemia) or above target (hyperglycemia) requiring dose adjustment or intervention.

HbA1c

Frequency: Every 3-6 months (or more frequently if glycemic control is not stable or treatment is changed).

Target: Individualized, typically <7% for most non-pregnant adults.

Action Threshold: Above target, indicating need for dose adjustment or treatment modification.

Signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia

Frequency: Continuously, patient education on recognition.

Target: N/A

Action Threshold: Any occurrence of symptoms (e.g., sweating, tremor, confusion, dizziness) requires immediate action.

Injection site inspection

Frequency: Regularly (e.g., daily or weekly)

Target: No redness, swelling, lumps, or lipodystrophy.

Action Threshold: Presence of abnormalities requires rotation of injection sites or medical evaluation.

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Symptoms of hypoglycemia: sweating, dizziness, lightheadedness, tremor, palpitations, anxiety, hunger, confusion, irritability, headache, blurred vision, slurred speech, weakness, seizures, unconsciousness.
  • Symptoms of hyperglycemia: increased thirst, increased urination, dry mouth, fatigue, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain (especially in DKA).
  • Symptoms of fluid retention/heart failure (if co-administered with TZDs): unusual weight gain, swelling in ankles/feet, shortness of breath.

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Insulin glargine is generally considered safe and effective for use during pregnancy. Available data from published observational studies and postmarketing reports have not reported an association with major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Careful monitoring of blood glucose is essential, and insulin requirements may change throughout pregnancy.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: Insulin requirements may decrease.
Second Trimester: Insulin requirements typically increase.
Third Trimester: Insulin requirements typically increase, then may decrease just before delivery.
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Lactation

Insulin glargine is compatible with breastfeeding. Insulin is a normal component of human milk and is not orally absorbed by the infant. No adverse effects on the breastfed infant are expected. Maternal insulin requirements may decrease during lactation.

Infant Risk: Low (L1 - Safest)
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Pediatric Use

Approved for children 6 years and older with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Dosing must be individualized and carefully titrated based on blood glucose monitoring. Increased risk of hypoglycemia, especially in younger children who may not recognize symptoms.

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Geriatric Use

No specific dose adjustment is required based on age alone. However, elderly patients may be more susceptible to the hypoglycemic effects of insulin and may have impaired renal or hepatic function, which can affect insulin requirements. Close glucose monitoring and careful dose titration are recommended.

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Insulin Glargine U-300 (Toujeo) has a more prolonged and stable glucose-lowering effect (up to 36 hours) compared to U-100 glargine (Lantus/Basaglar), which lasts up to 24 hours. This can provide more consistent basal coverage.
  • Patients transitioning from U-100 glargine to U-300 glargine typically require a 10-15% higher dose of U-300 to achieve similar glycemic control due to differences in absorption characteristics.
  • U-300 glargine is available in Solostar (1.5 mL) and Max Solostar (3 mL) pens. Both deliver U-300 insulin, but the Max Solostar pen delivers a higher maximum single dose (160 units vs 80 units for Solostar).
  • Always instruct patients to dial the dose in units, not volume. The pen automatically converts the dose to the correct volume of U-300 insulin.
  • Emphasize the importance of injecting at the same time each day to maintain consistent basal insulin levels.
  • Educate patients on proper injection technique and rotation of injection sites to prevent lipohypertrophy, which can impair insulin absorption.
  • Stress the importance of never sharing pens or needles due to infection risk.
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Alternative Therapies

  • Other classes of antidiabetic agents (e.g., Metformin, Sulfonylureas, DPP-4 inhibitors, SGLT2 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, Thiazolidinediones, Meglitinides, Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, Amylin analogs)
  • Other insulin regimens (e.g., multiple daily injections of rapid-acting insulin with U-100 basal insulin, insulin pumps)
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Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: Varies widely, typically $300-$600+ per 1.5ml pen (300 units/ml)
Insurance Coverage: Tier 2 or Tier 3 (preferred or non-preferred brand medication) on most commercial and Medicare Part D plans.
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General Drug Facts

If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it's a good idea to check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek medical attention. When reporting the incident, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.