Patient was educated on the side effects of using Lantus as follows:
- Weight gain
- This is secondary to the anabolic effect of Lantus administration and can result from increased calorie intake over time.
- Lipodystrophy
- This is an effect secondary to repeated Lantus shots administered for prolonged period.
- Thickening of adipose tissue can occur at the site of repeated insulin administration, which can affect absorption of insulin over time.
- This can lead to a poor response to Lantus administered and poor control of blood sugars.
- Rotation of insulin administration sites can help prevent this side effect from developing.
- Hypokalemia
- Lantus has the property of shifting potassium from the blood into the cells.
- The chances for this shift increases with higher doses of Lantus.
- Be aware of symptoms of hypokalemia, such as, fatigue, muscle weakness, tingling and numbness in the extremities, chest discomfort, and palpitations.
