Which statement correctly describes glargine (Lantus) insulin?

Which statement correctly describes glargine (Lantus) insulin?

• A. It is long-acting and does not have a pronounced peak
• B. It is a rapid-acting insulin dosed before meals
• C. It peaks 4 to 10 hours after administration
• D. It is used only for type 1 diabetes

Answer: (A)

Glargine is a basal, long-acting insulin designed to provide a steady insulin level over a full day. Its action profile is flat, with no pronounced peak, which helps mimic natural background insulin and reduces the risk of nocturnal hypoglycemia. It is not a meal-time, rapid-acting insulin and is not given to cover meals. The idea that it peaks several hours after administration doesn’t apply to glargine, because its peak is minimal. It can be used in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes to provide baseline insulin, typically once daily at the same time each day (and sometimes twice daily if needed).

Glargine is a basal, long-acting insulin designed to provide a steady insulin level over a full day. Its action profile is flat, with no pronounced peak, which helps mimic natural background insulin and reduces the risk of nocturnal hypoglycemia. It is not a meal-time, rapid-acting insulin and is not given to cover meals. The idea that it peaks several hours after administration doesn’t apply to glargine, because its peak is minimal. It can be used in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes to provide baseline insulin, typically once daily at the same time each day (and sometimes twice daily if needed).