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The Question
10/24/08
12:30 PM
"Is it possible to take Lantus insulin in the morning instead of bedtime?"
Asked By:
karenpate
Category:
Insulin
Background Info Hide
I currently take my insulin at bedtimefor Type II diabetes and almost always have blood sugars below 60 mg/dl in the morning, but by noon, they are back to around 120 and remain there until after supper when the rise to the upper 100's. I also take Amaryl 2mgs in the morning and 45 mg Actos in the morning. I also take medication for cholesterol, asthma, bladder control and depression. I exercise moderately daily and watch my diet carefully.
Expert Answers (1)
10/25/08
04:10 PM
Dear karenpate: You absolutely CAN take Lantus in the morning. This is a change you should discuss with your health care professional (HCP), but can certainly be tried. I have switched many patients to morning dosing of Lantus for the very reason you described. Why would this work better? Remember that every person with diabetes is an individual, with their own metabolism and rate of absorption. For some, the Lantus seems to work stronger the first 12 hours after injection, and “weakens” as the day goes on. If this is your case, then having it decrease in potency throughout the night should be beneficial in preventing those morning lows. This may also be due to some of the other medications you take, so there is a wide variety of possible reasons. Some people even find it works best if they split the dose to morning and evening (this is usually most effective for those taking less than 30 units Lantus daily). One thing to keep in mind, after you have your HCP's okay, is that the first day after the switch may be a bit "off". Most people, when making this change, skip their evening Lantus one night and begin using it every morning thereafter. Therefore, that first day may be running a bit "behind" and BG may be elevated, however, things are usually fairly settled by the second day. Good luck.
Answered By:
Anne Carroll
Accreditations: RN, CDE
Sources Show
(1 Answer)
Community Answers (2)
11/18/08
05:28 PM
Hello Insulin Joe,
I always take my insulin at bedtime, never forgetting a dose or taking it twice (yes, I do have a bit of a memory problem, but I don't forget to take my meds-I've been a diabetic for over 25 years). My doctor did prescribe Lantus because it's supposed to have the same action for 24 hours, but perhaps my metabolism is different. It's frustrating to be very low in the morning and then watching my blood sugar rise throughout the day, even though I watch my diet and exercise carefully. It's been suggested that my other medications might have an influence on how the Lantus is working in my body. Another possibility why the Lantus doesn't work evenly during the day is I am a Vietnam-Era Veteran and was exposed to Agent Orange, which has caused similar problems in other Vets (although not enough research has been done in this area).
Thanks for your ideas.
Karen
Answered By:
karenpate
FLAG
SourcesShow
11/18/08
04:39 PM
Lantus insulin is suppose to deliver an even amount of protection for the duration of it's usage.
When you take it should not change the way it works inside you.
It does not peak like other insulins.
It provides a gradual, even arc of support.
The biggest reason I can see to taking it in the morning instead of at night, is you'll be less likely to forget to take it, and you'll be more alert to not make a mistake and inject yourself twice or too much.
Answered By:
insulin joe
FLAG
SourcesShow
(2 Answers)
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*** All information contained on dLife.com is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Our Expert Q&A is not intended to be a replacement or substitute for consultation with a qualified medical professional or for professional medical advice related to diabetes or another medical condition. Please contact your physician or medical professional with any questions and concerns about your medical condition.
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