Lantus (Insulin)

Lantus is a brand name of insulin used to treat diabetes in cats and dogs. Lantus contains insulin glargine, a synthetic, long-acting form of human insulin. It is injected into diabetic pets where elevated blood sugar levels occur due to the body’s own insulin being either insufficient or ineffective. If not managed properly, diabetes can be life-threatening. Lantus is more commonly prescribed for cats compared to dogs.

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas which functions by regulating blood glucose levels. Typically, glucose is digested and absorbed into the bloodstream to be used as energy. Insulin facilitates the movement of this glucose from the bloodstream into the cells, thereby reducing blood glucose levels. In cats with diabetes, where this process is impaired, injectable insulin is administered to assist in transferring glucose into the cells, ensuring its availability for energy production.

Since Lantus is an injectable, it requires careful technique when administering. Your veterinarian will guide you on how to administer it making sure you are confident with the process.

Preparing the Dose

• Check the Insulin: Ensure the insulin is clear and colourless. Do not use if it appears cloudy, thickened, or coloured.
• Mix Gently: Roll the insulin vial gently between your hands to warm it slightly. Avoid shaking vigorously to prevent creating air bubbles.

Drawing the Insulin

• Clean: Wash your hands thoroughly.
• Prepare the Syringe: Remove the syringe cap and pull the plunger back to draw air into the syringe equal to the insulin dose.
• Insert Air into Vial: Insert the needle into the vial's rubber stopper, push the plunger to inject air (this helps avoid creating a vacuum).
• Invert and Draw: Turn the vial upside down, ensuring the tip of the needle is submerged in insulin, and slowly pull back the plunger to fill the syringe with the prescribed amount of insulin.
• Remove Air Bubbles: Check for air bubbles in the syringe. Tap the syringe gently and push the plunger slightly to expel them.

Administering the Insulin

• Choose the Site: The typical administration site is the loose skin around the neck or back (the scruff). Rotate sites to prevent skin irritation.
• Administer Insulin: Gently pinch the skin to lift it, insert the needle at about a 45-degree angle, and inject the prescribed dose of insulin.
• Dispose Properly: Use a sharps container to dispose of needles and syringes safely.

After Administration

• Safely dispose of the used needle, preferably in a medical sharps bin.
• Monitor Your Pet: Watch for signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), such as lethargy, shaking, or seizures. If you observe these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.
• Keep a Routine: Administer insulin at the same times daily, typically after meals, to maintain a consistent blood glucose level.

Additional Tip: Record Keeping, keep a log of insulin administration times, doses, and any reactions or changes in your pet’s condition.

Overdose: In case of overdose or emergencies related to insulin usage in pets, contact your veterinarian immediately or the New Zealand National Poisons Centre at www.poisons.co.nz/animal-helpline/ or phone 0800 869 738.

Hypoglycemia Risk: The primary concern with any insulin, including Lantus, is the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels). Pets with a history of severe hypoglycemic episodes may require careful monitoring and dose adjustments.

Dosing and Administration Errors: Incorrect dosing, improper administration, or not following the prescribed treatment regimen can lead to complications, including poor control of diabetes or hypoglycemia.

The primary side effect of using insulin, such as Lantus, is hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) which can be serious and potentially life-threatening, posing risks to the heart and brain.

Symptoms of critically low blood sugar levels include:

• Weakness or Lethargy: The cat may appear unusually tired, weak, or less responsive.
• Loss of Appetite: A sudden disinterest in food, which can be unusual for a cat, especially if it typically has a good appetite.
• Trembling or Shivering: You may notice your cat shaking as if cold, which is a result of low blood sugar levels.
• Unsteady Gait or Ataxia: The cat may seem uncoordinated, wobbly, or unable to walk straight, often a sign of neurological impairment due to low glucose.
• Restlessness or Agitation: Some cats become unusually restless or agitated when their blood sugar drops.
• Seizures: In severe cases, hypoglycemia can lead to seizures, which may manifest as sudden, uncontrollable muscle spasms or convulsions.
• Unusual Behaviour: This can include anything from confusion, disorientation, staring off into space, or even aggressive behaviour that is out of character for the cat.
• Collapse or Coma: In extreme cases, severe hypoglycemia can lead to loss of consciousness or coma.

Store unopened Lantus in the fridge (2°C to 8°C) and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures, do not freeze. Once opened, it can be stored at room temperature below 25C, or in the fridge. Protect from light and heat. Discard 28 days after opening.

Regular monitoring of your pet's health and glucose levels is critical. This includes monitoring appetite, weight, and behaviour. Blood glucose curves and periodic vet check-ups help ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.

How quickly does Lantus work in cats?

• Every pet is different, however improvement in symptoms can occur quickly, but it may take several weeks for your pet to fully adjust to the insulin therapy.

Does Lantus make cats sleepy?

• Lantus itself shouldn't cause sleepiness. However, incorrect dosing leading to low blood sugar can result in lethargy.

When should Lantus be given?

• Ideally, Lantus should be administered right after your pet's meal, as per your veterinarian's recommendation.