A tool designed to assist healthcare professionals and individuals with diabetes in determining the appropriate dosage when switching between two long-acting insulin analogs: Lantus (insulin glargine 100 units/mL) and Toujeo (insulin glargine 300 units/mL). These calculations are crucial for maintaining glycemic control and preventing potential hypo- or hyperglycemic events. For example, a patient previously taking 40 units of Lantus might require a different dosage of Toujeo to achieve a similar blood sugar level.
The use of such an instrument is paramount because Lantus and Toujeo, although both containing insulin glargine, have distinct concentrations and pharmacokinetic profiles. Switching between them without a proper calculation can lead to under- or over-dosing, resulting in significant health consequences. The existence of this tool reflects a growing need for precision in insulin management, driven by a desire to optimize patient outcomes and minimize the risks associated with incorrect insulin dosages. Historically, dosage conversions were often based on simple 1:1 ratios, which are now recognized as potentially inaccurate and unsafe.