Question

Discuss at least three most important side effects of Lantus Insulin pen and how to manage, promote safety and enhance comfort based on the adverse effects

Answer 1

Lantus insulin is a long acting one used in type 1 and type 2 Diabetes mellitus.

Side effects

1. Lantus insulin is long acting one,it may induce rashes and swellings.Lantus is derived from external source or recombinant technology.Many of the patients may be allergic to it..Allergic reactions may include dizzines and breathing difficulty for the patients.
2. Once the dose my be higher,the hypoglycemia may develop.It includes chills,blurred vision,weakness,faintness etc.Lantus insulin is long acting,it cannot be used in emergency situations like diabetic ketoacidosis.
3. Once the insulin filled at larger amount,symptoms of very high blood glucose may appear.Thay are: increased urination, increased thirst,drowsiness,fruity smell of breath,confusion etc.This is an emergency situation,at this point of time,Lantus insulin pen cannot be used.

Safety considerations

• For those who use Lantus insulin pen,should adhere to the doses as exactly as possible.Try not to miss any of the doses.When we started to insulin pen with Lantus insulin,should always be ready with the insulin stock to fill the pen,if it is a reusable one.
• Keep doses as prescribed,if the dose is higher,hypoglycemic symptoms may appear.At the same time,if the dose is below prescribed,blood glucose level rise to very high level may causes serious complications.
• Do not use cold insulin,make it to the room temperature.Otherwise,it may cause too much pain when injecting the pen.
• Try to use lantus before meals.
• Lantus insulin should not be mixed with other type insulin before injection.
• Lantus insulin pen should not be reused,if it is not permitted.
• Another important safety consideration is,Lantus insulin pen ,can only be used by single person himself,cannot be shared with anyone,may be a medium of transmission of communicable diseases such as HIV,and Hepatitis B and C.
• The patient himself may be very aware about his own diabetic status and undergo periodic blood sugar examinations.
• Patients should be aware about what are the the symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.
• Lantus insulin pen should be kept in a hygienic place.Keep at a place, where children cannot access.
• Before injection,look for the insulin for any cloudiness and lack of clear solution,may indicate the medicine is not fit to use.It should not be used but discarded.