Common side effects of insulin glargine include:
- redness, swelling, pain, or itching at the injection site
- changes in the feel of your skin, skin thickening (fat build-up), or a little depression in the skin (fat breakdown)
- fever, cough, sore throat, or other signs of infection
This is not a complete list of adverse effects – though these are among the most common. Seek medical attention right away if you experience any of the following symptoms, as they could be signs of a possibly serious adverse reaction to this medication and require treatment right away:
- rash, hives, or itching all over the body
- wheezing
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- fast pulse
- sweating
- swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, or throat
- hoarseness
- weakness
- muscle cramps
- abnormal heartbeat
- sudden weight gain
- swelling of ankles or feet
- shortness of breath
- vision changes
As with all medication, inform your doctor of any medical conditions you are currently managing. Tell them about all medication, prescription drugs, and supplements you are taking before starting treatment with insulin glargine. Insulin glargine can interact with substances in the body, causing potentially serious adverse reactions.
Be sure to inform your health care provider of any angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE), anti-diabetics, antibiotics, beta-blockers, cholesterol-lowering medication, HIV medication, diuretics, or replacement hormones you have been taking before you start taking insulin glargine. Be sure to mention any herbal products you are using.
Tell your doctor if you have had heart failure, low levels of potassium in the blood, or nerve damage caused by diabetes. You should also tell them if you have had heart, liver, or kidney disease.
In addition, let your doctor know if you are planning to become pregnant, are pregnant, or are currently breastfeeding before starting treatment with this medication. Call your provider if you become pregnant while you are taking insulin glargine.