What is Lantus?
Lantus is a long-acting insulin that is used to control blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes and in adults and children 6 years and older with type 1 diabetes. Lantus takes about 1 to 2 hours to begin working after injection. After injection, Lantus is released slowly and constantly into the bloodstream, and its effects last between 18 and 26 hours. The drug contains insulin glargine, zinc, metacresol, glycerin, and water. You may need to use this drug in combination with other insulin or oral diabetes drugs.
What is NovoLog?
Novolog is a fast-acting synthetic insulin that controls blood sugar levels in patients with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Usually, NovoLog is taken in combination with other medications to control blood sugar levels for longer periods. NovoLog begins working within 15 minutes and lasts for up to 4 hours.
How to use these medications
After using NovoLog, also known as insulin aspart, you should eat a meal within the next 5 to 10 minutes. It should be injected under the skin or into a vein with an IV.
Lantus should be injected under the skin and should not be injected into a vein or muscle. Your health-care provider will show you the best places to inject insulin aspart or insulin glargine. Rotate the area of injection to avoid injecting into the same place twice in a row.
Similarities and differences between Lantus and NovoLog
Similarities
Both drugs are meant to be injected on a daily basis in order to control blood sugar levels. Lantus and NovoLog may cause fluid retention or low potassium. As well, they may also cause low blood sugar. Speak to your doctor if you experience any of these effects. Do not change your dose without instruction from your doctors.
Differences
NovoLog is a fast-acting insulin that only lasts for a few hours, while Lantus is a long-acting insulin that can last up to 26 hours.
Disclaimer: Please note that the contents of this community article are strictly for informational purposes and should not be considered as medical advice. This article, and other community articles, are not written or reviewed for medical validity by Canadian Insulin or its staff. All views and opinions expressed by the contributing authors are not endorsed by Canadian Insulin. Always consult a medical professional for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.
