PTCE Top 200 · #30

Insulin Glargine

Lantus

Insulin Glargine is the generic name for the brand-name drug Lantus. It is an insulin used to treat diabetes (long-acting basal). On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Insulin Glargine ranks #30 and is one of the most frequently tested endocrine/diabetes medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.

Generic name	Insulin Glargine
Brand name(s)	Lantus
Drug class	Insulin
Class group	Endocrine/Diabetes
Common use	diabetes (long-acting basal)
DEA schedule	Unscheduled
Availability	Prescription only (Rx)

What is Insulin Glargine used for?

Long‑acting basal insulin used to improve glycemic control in diabetes mellitus (type 1 and type 2; indication varies by product).

What drug class is Insulin Glargine?

Insulin Glargine is an Insulin in the Endocrine/Diabetes group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.

Common side effects of Insulin Glargine

arrow_rightHypoglycemia
arrow_rightWeight gain
arrow_rightInjection‑site reactions
arrow_rightEdema
arrow_rightUpper respiratory symptoms

Major interactions

arrow_rightOther glucose‑lowering drugs (sulfonylureas, GLP‑1 RAs) may increase hypoglycemia risk
arrow_rightBeta‑blockers can mask hypoglycemia symptoms
arrow_rightSteroids/thiazides can raise glucose and increase insulin needs

Is Insulin Glargine a controlled substance?

No. Insulin Glargine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).

How to remember Insulin Glargine (PTCE mnemonic)

LANTus = long-lasting 'LANT-ern' — glargine is basal insulin, ~24hr, no peak. NEVER mix in syringe; bedtime dose; watch nocturnal lows.

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PTCE exam tip

Glargine (Lantus) is a long-acting 'basal' insulin — once daily, no peak. Never mix it in a syringe with other insulins; refrigerate spare pens/vials.