Basaglar Cartridges

BASAGLAR CARTRIDGES

BASAGLAR is a long-acting basal insulin used to improve glycemic control in individuals with diabetes. It is a product of Cipla Ltd.

• Name:

  • Common Name: Insulin Glargine
  • Brand Name: BASAGLAR CARTRIDGES

• Composition:

  • Active Ingredient: Insulin Glargine (100 Units/ml or 3.64 IU/ml).
  • Inactive Ingredients: Zinc, m-cresol, glycerin, and water for injection. Hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide may be added for pH adjustment.

• Uses: BASAGLAR is prescribed for the treatment of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in adults and children (aged 2 years and above) and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults. It provides a steady, consistent level of insulin throughout the day and night, helping to control high blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.

• Dosage and Administration: BASAGLAR CARTRIDGES are for subcutaneous injection once daily, preferably at the same time each day. It is administered using a compatible insulin pen.

  • Type 1 Diabetes: The starting dose is typically about one-third of the total daily insulin requirements, with the remainder covered by short- or rapid-acting insulin.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: The recommended starting dose is 0.2 units/kg or up to 10 units once daily, which may be adjusted based on individual response and blood glucose levels.
  • Injection sites, such as the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, should be rotated to prevent lipodystrophy. Do not inject into thickened skin or lumps.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is the most frequent adverse effect. Other common side effects include injection site reactions (pain, redness, swelling), peripheral edema, lipodystrophy, allergic reactions (itching, rash), and weight gain.
  • Serious Side Effects (rare): Severe hypoglycemia can lead to seizures, unconsciousness, or death. Severe allergic reactions, including rash, hives, trouble breathing, fast heart rate, and low blood pressure, require immediate medical attention.

• Precautions:

  • Patients should be closely monitored for signs of hypoglycemia.
  • Do not use if allergic to insulin glargine or any components.
  • BASAGLAR should not be used for intravenous, intramuscular, or insulin pump administration.
  • Do not mix BASAGLAR with any other insulin or dilute it, as this can alter its effectiveness.
  • Always visually inspect the solution; it should be clear, colorless, and free from particles.
  • Inform your healthcare provider about any kidney, liver, or heart problems, as well as if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Never share injection pens, cartridges, or needles due to the risk of disease transmission.

• Storage:

  • Unopened Cartridges: Store in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze and discard if it has been frozen. Keep away from direct heat and light.
  • Opened (in-use) Cartridges: Can be stored at room temperature (below 30°C or 86°F) for up to 28 days. Do not refrigerate an opened cartridge. Discard any remaining insulin after 28 days.
  • Allow insulin to reach room temperature before injection to minimize local irritation.

What is Basaglar Cartridges used for?

Basaglar Cartridges, containing insulin glargine, is a long-acting insulin used to improve blood sugar control in adults and children (ages 6 years and older) with type 1 diabetes and in adults with type 2 diabetes. It is a man-made form of insulin that provides a steady, consistent level of insulin in the body throughout the day.

How does Basaglar work?

Basaglar works by replacing the insulin naturally produced by the body. It helps lower blood glucose by stimulating the uptake of glucose into peripheral cells, particularly muscle and fat cells, and by inhibiting the liver's production of glucose. This continuous action helps maintain stable blood sugar levels for approximately 24 hours without pronounced peaks.

What is the usual dosage for Basaglar?

Basaglar is administered as a subcutaneous injection once daily, at the same time each day.

• For Type 1 Diabetes (adults and children 6 years and older): The typical starting dose is about one-third of the total daily insulin requirement, with the remaining portion covered by mealtime insulin. The total daily insulin dose is based on body weight, usually ranging from 0.4 to 1 unit per kilogram (kg) per day.
• For Type 2 Diabetes (adults): The typical starting dose is 0.2 units/kg per day, with a maximum starting dosage of 10 units per day. Dosage is individualized by your doctor based on your metabolic needs, blood glucose monitoring results, and glycemic control goals. Each prefilled pen can deliver a maximum dose of 80 units per injection.

What are the possible side effects of Basaglar?

The most common and serious side effect of Basaglar is hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Common/Mild side effects may include:

• Injection site reactions (pain, redness, itching, swelling).
• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet (edema).
• Itchy skin or skin rash.
• Changes in skin thickness near the injection site (lipodystrophy, lumps, pitting).
• Weight gain.
• Common cold symptoms, such as a runny nose.

Serious side effects can include:

• Severe hypoglycemia: Symptoms can include headache, shakiness, dizziness, sweating, fast heartbeat, confusion, blurred vision, slurred speech, anxiety, irritability, hunger, seizures, loss of consciousness, or coma.
• Allergic reactions: Symptoms range from mild (skin rash, itching, flushing) to severe (swelling under the skin, especially in the lips, eyelids, feet, or hands; swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat causing difficulty breathing). Severe allergic reactions require immediate medical attention.
• Hypokalemia (low potassium levels in the blood).
• Worsening of heart problems: Especially if taken with certain medications like thiazolidinediones (TZDs), which can cause fluid retention and worsen heart failure.

Is Basaglar safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

During pregnancy, maintaining good metabolic control is crucial. Studies on insulin glargine (the active ingredient in Basaglar) have not indicated an increased risk of birth defects or other adverse developmental outcomes above the background risk. However, it's essential to consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication during pregnancy. During breastfeeding, insulin glargine is considered a normal component of breast milk and is not expected to cause problems for the nursing infant. Women with diabetes who are breastfeeding may need adjustments to their insulin doses.

Can Basaglar be taken with other medications?

Yes, Basaglar can be taken with other diabetes medications, including short-acting insulins. However, taking Basaglar with other insulins or diabetes medications can increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), so close blood sugar monitoring is important. Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and alcohol you consume, as some substances (e.g., alcohol, beta-blockers, clonidine, lithium salts, pentamidine) can interact with insulin glargine and may require dose adjustments or more frequent blood glucose monitoring. It is important not to mix Basaglar with any other insulin or solution in the same syringe.

What precautions should be taken when using Basaglar?

• Check labels: Always verify the insulin label before each injection to prevent medication errors, especially accidental mix-ups with other types of insulin.
• Do not share pens: Never share your Basaglar pen, even if the needle is changed, due to the risk of transmitting blood-borne pathogens.
• Rotate injection sites: Rotate the injection site within the same general area (e.g., stomach, thigh, upper arm) with each dose to prevent skin changes like lipodystrophy that can affect insulin absorption.
• Blood glucose monitoring: Monitor your blood glucose levels regularly, especially when your dosage or schedule changes, during illness, or with changes in diet or exercise.
• Hypoglycemia awareness: Be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar and always carry a quick source of sugar (e.g., glucose tablets, hard candy, juice).
• Medical conditions: Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems, as these can increase your risk of hypoglycemia.
• Potassium levels: Basaglar can lower potassium levels; your doctor may monitor your potassium if you have low levels or take other medications that affect potassium.
• Alcohol: Discuss alcohol consumption with your doctor, as it can make blood sugar management difficult and increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
• Appearance: Do not use Basaglar if the solution is not clear and colorless or if it contains any particles.
• Administration: Basaglar should not be administered intravenously or via an insulin pump.

What happens if a dose of Basaglar is missed?

If you miss a dose of Basaglar, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take more than one dose within 24 hours unless specifically advised by your doctor, as this can significantly increase the risk of severe hypoglycemia. Closely monitor your blood sugar levels, as a missed dose can lead to high blood sugar (hyperglycemia).

How should Basaglar Cartridges be stored?

Proper storage of Basaglar Cartridges is crucial for maintaining its effectiveness:

• Unopened cartridges/pens: Store them in a refrigerator between 2°C – 8°C (36°F to 46°F) until the expiration date. Keep them away from direct heat and light. Do not freeze Basaglar, and discard it if it has been frozen.
• Opened (in-use) cartridges/pens: Once opened or in use, Basaglar cartridges/pens can be stored at room temperature (below 30°C or 86°F) for up to 28 days. Keep them away from direct heat and light. After 28 days, discard any remaining insulin, even if some is left.
• Do not remove an opened cartridge from the injection pen and reinsert it.