Basaglar Tempo Pen

Basaglar Tempo Pen is FDA-approved for:

• Type 1 Diabetes: As a basal insulin for adults and children who require long-acting insulin for glucose control.
• Type 2 Diabetes: For adults who require insulin to manage blood glucose levels when oral medications, diet, and exercise are not sufficient.

Basaglar Tempo Pen is contraindicated in patients with:

• A history of hypersensitivity to insulin glargine or any of the components in the formulation.
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) that is uncontrolled or unmonitored.

Patients using Basaglar Tempo Pen should be instructed on the proper use and storage of the pen. It should be injected subcutaneously (under the skin) in areas such as the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Patients should rotate injection sites to reduce the risk of lipodystrophy (abnormal fat distribution). The pen should be stored in the refrigerator before use but can be kept at room temperature for up to 28 days after the first use. It is important to check blood sugar levels regularly and to be aware of the signs of hypoglycemia, such as shakiness, sweating, confusion, or dizziness. Patients should carry a source of fast-acting sugar, like glucose tablets, to treat low blood sugar if it occurs.

Common side effects of Basaglar Tempo Pen may include:

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

Serious side effects, though rare, can include:

• Severe hypoglycemia, which can lead to unconsciousness or seizures.
• Allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, or trouble breathing.
• Lipodystrophy, which is abnormal fat distribution at the injection site.

Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience signs of a severe allergic reaction or severe hypoglycemia.

• Hypoglycemia: The most common risk associated with insulin therapy is hypoglycemia. Patients must monitor their blood sugar levels regularly and be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar.
• Hypokalemia: Insulin can cause a shift of potassium from the blood into cells, potentially leading to hypokalemia (low potassium levels), which can be dangerous.
• Weight Gain: Insulin therapy may be associated with weight gain, so patients should work with their healthcare provider to manage their weight.
• Allergic Reactions: Some patients may experience allergic reactions to insulin or the components of the pen.

Basaglar Tempo Pen may interact with other medications, including:

• Oral Antidiabetics: Such as metformin, sulfonylureas, or SGLT2 inhibitors, which may increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
• Beta-Blockers: These can mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia, making it harder to recognize low blood sugar levels.
• Corticosteroids: These can increase blood sugar levels, requiring adjustments in insulin dosing.
• ACE Inhibitors: These may enhance insulin sensitivity, potentially leading to hypoglycemia.

Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications, supplements, and herbal products they are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Alternative treatments for managing diabetes include:

• Other long-acting insulins: Such as insulin detemir (Levemir) or insulin degludec (Tresiba).
• Intermediate-acting insulins: Such as NPH insulin.
• Rapid-acting and short-acting insulins: Such as insulin lispro (Humalog), insulin aspart (Novolog), or regular insulin.
• Oral antidiabetic medications: For type 2 diabetes, such as metformin, sulfonylureas, or DPP-4 inhibitors.

The choice of treatment depends on the patient's type of diabetes, lifestyle, and other health considerations.