When Your Schedule Changes
The only thing constant is change. So even if you've made Lantus®
a part of your everday routine, something may come along that
gives you a challenge.
For example, what do you do when you dine out? What if you're planning a vacation?
What happens when you're sick?
|
When You're Dining Out
Here are a few simple rules to follow when dining out:
- Choose a restaurant with a variety of choices. You may be able to see their menu
online
- Call the restaurant and ask if they can prepare a special meal
for you
- Remember the "plate method." Eat the same portion that you would at home. Take any
leftovers home with you
- Share plates with your dining partner
- And ask your doctor about drinking alcohol
|
|
When You're on the Road
Here are some things to think about before you take insulin with you on your next
vacation:
- If you're traveling to a different time zone, talk to your healthcare professional about
when you should take your insulin shots
- Get written prescriptions for your insulin and diabetes pills as well as other medicines in case you need to
get more while you're away
- If you're traveling to another country, get a list of International Diabetes Federation
groups at www.idf.org. They should
be able to help you fill a prescription and find a healthcare provider in an emergency
- Wear a medical ID bracelet or carry a wallet card that says you have diabetes. They're
available at your local pharmacy, or you can find one simply by searching for the
term "diabetes medical ID bracelet"
|
|
When You're Under the Weather
It's a good idea to plan ahead for those times when you get sick. Discuss a plan of action with your doctor that includes:
- How to adjust your insulin dose while you are sick
- How often to monitor your blood sugar
- How to reach your doctor if you need help at off-hours
|
A Helpful Tip From a CDE
After each blood sugar measurement, record your numbers. Circle those that are out of your target ranges and make note of what you think caused that fluctuation―for example, maybe you were sick or had just exercised. Discuss this information with your healthcare professional often.
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®.
Click here for information on Sharps Medical Waste Disposal.
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.