Day 2: Starting a Blood Sugar Log to Keep on Track
The easiest way to make sure your blood sugar levels are where you want them to
be is by keeping a daily blood sugar log.
Why Keep a Blood Sugar Log?
Because blood sugar levels always vary, monitoring them lets you know how to identify
patterns and react to different situations in your routine. You'll learn more about
this later (on Day 4). But for now, try to check your levels as recommended by your
doctor and write down the numbers.
Any blood sugar result you get is good information that can help you and your doctor—so
write it in your blood sugar log and give it to your doctor at your next visit.
Download Blood Sugar Log
Blood Sugar Targets
Your doctor may set individualized goals for you, based on how long you've had diabetes,
your age, other medical conditions you have, as well as other considerations. But
as a general guideline, refer to the ADA recommendations. For most people with diabetes,
blood glucose levels should be within this range:
Before meals or upon waking:  |
2 hours after the start of a meal:
|
70 - 130 mg/dL
|
Less than 180 mg/dL
|
Be Patient
Most things don't change overnight and your dose adjustment may take time. In fact,
it may take 2 to 3 months to see improved blood sugar control. Don't get discouraged.
By starting your treatment with Lantus®, you've already taken an
important first step toward managing your blood sugar.
Stay Positive
Your blood sugar readings may cause some strong feelings. It might make you feel
upset or frustrated—even angry. But remember that your blood sugar log is a way
to track how well your diabetes treatment plan (which may include diet, exercise,
and other diabetes medicines) is working. It's not a reflection of you as a person.
If you aren't reaching your goals, talk to your doctor.
Do not take Lantus® if you are allergic to insulin or any of the
inactive ingredients in Lantus®.
You must test your blood sugar levels while using insulin, such as Lantus®.
Do not make any changes to your dose or type of insulin without talking to your
healthcare provider. Any change of insulin should be made cautiously and only under
medical supervision.
Do NOT dilute or mix Lantus® with any other insulin or solution.
It will not work as intended and you may lose blood sugar control, which could be
serious. Lantus® must only be used if the solution is clear and colorless
with no particles visible. Do not share needles, insulin pens or syringes with
others.
The most common side effect of insulin, including Lantus®, is
low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which may be serious. Some people may
experience symptoms such as shaking, sweating, fast heartbeat, and blurred vision.
Severe hypoglycemia may be serious and life-threatening. It may cause harm to your
heart or brain. Other possible side effects may include injection site reactions,
including changes in fat tissue at the injection site, and allergic reactions, including
itching and rash. In rare cases, some allergic reactions may be life-threatening.
Tell your doctor about other medicines and supplements you are taking because they
can change the way insulin works. Before starting Lantus®, tell your
doctor about all your medical conditions including if you have liver or kidney problems,
are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding or planning to
breast-feed.
Lantus® SoloSTAR® is a disposable prefilled insulin
pen. Please talk to your healthcare provider about proper injection technique and
follow instructions in the Instruction Leaflet that accompanies the pen.
Click here for Full Prescribing Information for Lantus®.
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The health information contained herein is provided for general educational purposes
only. Your healthcare professional is the single best source of information regarding
your health. Please consult your healthcare professional if you have any questions
about your health or treatment.