Basaglar® KwikPen® Insulin Glargine

What Is Basaglar®?

Basaglar® contains insulin glargine, a long-acting insulin analogue. It is approved for use in adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes and in children aged six years and older with type 1 diabetes. Basaglar is considered a biosimilar to Lantus® (insulin glargine), meaning it has no clinically meaningful differences in safety, purity, or potency compared to the reference product.

Basal insulin therapy plays a central role in diabetes management. Clinical guidance such as NICE Guideline NG17 (Type 1 Diabetes) and NICE Guideline NG28 (Type 2 Diabetes) supports the use of long-acting insulin to help maintain consistent glucose control when lifestyle changes and/or oral medications are insufficient.

How Basaglar® Works

Insulin glargine is engineered to provide prolonged, steady insulin activity. After subcutaneous injection, Basaglar forms microprecipitates in the fatty tissue under the skin. These microprecipitates slowly release small amounts of insulin into the bloodstream over approximately 24 hours.

This gradual release allows Basaglar to:

• Facilitate glucose uptake by muscle and fat cells
• Suppress excess glucose production by the liver
• Maintain fasting and between-meal blood glucose stability

Unlike rapid-acting or mealtime insulins, Basaglar is not intended to control blood sugar spikes after meals. Instead, it provides background (basal) insulin coverage throughout the day and night.

Benefits of Basaglar® KwikPen®

• 24-Hour Coverage: Provides consistent insulin levels with once-daily dosing.
• Convenient Pre-Filled Pen: The KwikPen device simplifies injection and dose selection.
• Flexible Treatment Plans: Can be used alongside rapid-acting insulins or oral antidiabetic medications.
• Clinically Comparable to Lantus®: As a biosimilar insulin glargine product, it offers equivalent therapeutic effects.
• Cost-Effective Option: Often more affordable than the reference brand insulin.

Who Can Use Basaglar®?

Basaglar is indicated for:

• Adults with type 1 diabetes (in combination with rapid-acting insulin)
• Adults with type 2 diabetes requiring basal insulin therapy
• Children aged 6 years and older with type 1 diabetes

It is not suitable for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and should not be administered intravenously or via an insulin pump.

Dosage and Administration

Recommended Dosing

Basaglar is typically administered once daily at the same time each day. The exact dose varies depending on:

• Individual blood glucose levels
• Previous insulin regimen
• Diet and physical activity
• Other medications

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions when initiating or adjusting insulin therapy.

Injection Technique

1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Inspect the insulin – it should be clear and colourless.
3. Attach a new sterile needle before each injection.
4. Prime the pen according to manufacturer instructions.
5. Select the prescribed dose.
6. Inject subcutaneously into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
7. Hold the injection button down for at least 10 seconds before removing the needle.

Important Administration Notes

• Rotate injection sites to reduce the risk of lipodystrophy.
• Do not mix or dilute Basaglar with other insulins.
• Do not administer intravenously.
• Do not use in an insulin pump.

Storage Instructions

• Store unopened pens in a refrigerator (2°C–8°C).
• Do not freeze. Discard if frozen.
• After first use, store at room temperature (below 30°C).
• Use within 28 days after opening.
• Keep away from direct heat and light.

Possible Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar)
• Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, itching)
• Weight gain
• Mild swelling in the hands or feet

Serious Side Effects

• Severe hypoglycaemia (confusion, seizures, unconsciousness)
• Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, breathing difficulty)
• Low potassium levels (hypokalaemia)

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction or severe hypoglycaemia.

Understanding Hypoglycaemia

Hypoglycaemia is the most common adverse effect associated with insulin therapy. It occurs when blood glucose levels fall below normal.

Symptoms May Include:

• Shakiness or sweating
• Rapid heartbeat
• Dizziness or confusion
• Hunger
• Headache
• Weakness or fatigue

How to Treat Low Blood Sugar

1. Consume 15–20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates (e.g., glucose tablets, fruit juice, regular soda).
2. Recheck blood sugar after 15 minutes.
3. If still low, repeat treatment.
4. Follow with a snack containing protein and carbohydrates if your next meal is more than one hour away.

Regular blood glucose monitoring is essential to minimize the risk of both hyperglycaemia and hypoglycaemia.

Drug Interactions

Certain medications may increase or decrease insulin requirements. These include:

• Other antidiabetic agents
• Corticosteroids
• Beta-blockers
• ACE inhibitors
• Alcohol

Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Basaglar® the same as Lantus®?

Basaglar is a biosimilar to Lantus (insulin glargine). It has been demonstrated to have no clinically meaningful differences in safety and effectiveness compared to the reference product.

Can Basaglar® be used in children?

Yes. Basaglar is approved for children aged six years and older with type 1 diabetes.

Can I mix Basaglar with other insulins?

No. Mixing or diluting Basaglar may alter its time-action profile and effectiveness.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

Contact your healthcare provider for advice. Do not double your dose without medical guidance.

Ordering Basaglar® KwikPen® Online

Basaglar is a prescription-only medicine. When ordering online, ensure the pharmacy is properly regulated and requires a valid prescription. Purchasing from reputable providers helps ensure product authenticity, safe storage conditions, and professional oversight.

For complete prescribing information, consult the official Basaglar® Product Monograph
.