Generic Name: Insulin glargine
Brands: Lantus Solostar, Toujeo SoloStar, Basaglar KwikPen, and Lantus
Class: Insulin (long-lasting human insulin analog)
Availability: Prescription needed
Molecular Formula: C267H404N72O78S6
Substance UNII: 2ZM8CX04RZ (insulin glargine)
What is Basaglar?
Basaglar is insulin, specifically a long-lasting human insulin analog. It is one of the brand-name options of the drug insulin glargine.
What is Basaglar Used For?
Basaglar is indicated for treatment and management of type 1 diabetes in children and adults and type 2 diabetes in adults. The FDA warns that it is not recommended for managing and treating diabetic ketoacidosis (diabetic acidosis or DKA).
How Does Basaglar Work?
Basalgar is a human (synthetic) insulin analog, which means it is structurally and functionally similar to naturally occurring insulin. Insulin glargine is a long-lasting insulin, which means it can steadily deliver benefits over a longer period of time than fast-acting options can. Now, insulin helps the body manage glucose, a simple sugar that helps provide the body with energy. While glucose is necessary for proper functioning, too much of it in the blood (blood glucose) can lead to problems, such as diabetes.
Basaglar helps diabetes patients manage their glucose levels by addressing how the body metabolizes glucose; it does so through a few ways. Firstly, it stimulates peripheral glucose uptake, which means it encourages peripheral tissues (particularly fat and skeletal muscles) to absorb glucose. This uptake importantly means there is less glucose in the bloodstream. Experts believe Basaglar also works by inhibiting hepatic (liver) glucose production, which lowers overall glucose levels.
Furthermore, Basaglar inhibits lipolysis and proteolysis while enhancing protein synthesis (creation). Now, lipolysis is the breaking down of fatty acid triglycerides for energy, and experts associate higher rates of lipolysis with diabetes. This process is spurred by hormones like glucagon. Since insulin inhibits the pancreas from releasing this hormone, insulin indirectly inhibits lipolysis. Proteolysis is the process of breaking down proteins for energy (specifically to release glucose when insulin levels are low). This process is dangerous as it can affect tissues and muscles in the whole body, including the heart.
So, when insulin inhibits both lipolysis and proteolysis while improving protein creation, it may help combat contributors to (and negative side effects of) diabetes like obesity (a side effect that, in turn, makes it harder to manage diabetes itself).
How Long Does it Take for Basaglar to Work?
This medication may start working a mere hour or two after initial injection. That said, it takes about 12 hours before insulin glargine reaches maximum effectiveness; it continues to provide benefits even 24 hours after initial injection.
Do Not Use Basaglar If:
There are several situations where this medication may not be the right choice for you. According to DailyMed, the following should not use Basaglar:
- Those experiencing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) episodes
- Those who are hypersensitive to Basaglar or any of its components
- Those with diabetic ketoacidosis (diabetic acidosis or DKA)
Please note that this list may not be complete, and there may be other situations where Basaglar use is not advisable. Always follow the instructions of your physician. There may be some cases after DKA episodes that it may be necessary to use lantus/basaglar.
Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.
