**Levemir vs. Lantus**
Levemir and Lantus are both long-acting injectable insulins designed to manage diabetes over an extended period. Using these medications can help you achieve better control of your diabetes.
The pancreas naturally secretes insulin, a hormone that assists in transforming the sugar and glucose in your blood into energy. This energy is then utilized by your body’s cells in various locations.
However, if you have diabetes, your body either can’t use insulin correctly, or your pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin. Without sufficient insulin, your body can’t utilize the sugars in your blood efficiently, leading to an energy deficit. Excessive blood sugar levels can also harm your blood vessels and kidneys. Insulin is essential to maintain normal blood sugar levels in all individuals with type 1 diabetes and many with type 2 diabetes.
So, what distinguishes Levemir from Lantus? If you’re curious, keep reading!
What are Levemir and Lantus?
Lantus is an insulin glargine solution, whereas Levemir is an insulin detemir solution.
Both insulin glargine and insulin detemir are basal insulin formulations. This means they gradually lower your blood sugar levels over time. Your body absorbs both throughout the day, maintaining reduced blood sugar levels for a longer duration compared to short-acting insulins.
Although Levemir and Lantus have slightly different formulations, they are nearly identical medications with very few differences.
Levemir and Lantus Usage
Levemir and Lantus can be taken by both adults and children. Levemir is specifically prescribed for patients two years and older, while Lantus is recommended for users six years and older.
Both Levemir and Lantus can help you manage diabetes more effectively on a day-to-day basis. However, you might still need short-acting insulin to address blood sugar spikes and diabetic ketoacidosis, which is a dangerous buildup of acids in your blood.
Side Effects of Levemir and Lantus
The adverse effects of these two medications vary slightly. According to one study, Levemir was associated with less weight gain, while Lantus caused fewer skin reactions at the injection site.
Other side effects of these medications include:
- Low blood sugar level
- Low blood potassium level
- Increased heart rate
- Tiredness
- Headache
- Confusion
- Hunger
- Nausea
- Muscle weakness
- Blurry vision
Like any medication, Lantus and Levemir can potentially cause allergic reactions. Anaphylaxis can occur in rare cases. If you experience swelling, hives, or a skin rash, contact your doctor immediately.