Sanofi, a multinational pharmaceutical company, has developed a new insulin product that promises to improve blood sugar control for people with diabetes.
The product was launched in late 2020 and has already received regulatory approval in several countries. This article explores the features of this new insulin and how it can benefit people with diabetes.
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a chronic health condition characterized by high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. The condition results from the body’s inability to produce or properly utilize insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas.
Insulin helps to regulate blood sugar levels by allowing glucose to enter the cells where it can be used for energy. In people with diabetes, the lack of insulin or its ineffectiveness leads to a buildup of glucose in the blood, which can lead to serious health complications.
Why blood sugar control is important?
Effective blood sugar control is essential for people with diabetes as it helps to prevent the development of complications. High blood sugar levels over time can damage the blood vessels, nerves, and organs, including the kidneys, eyes, and heart.
Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to kidney failure, blindness, heart disease, and stroke.
Sanofi’s New Insulin
Sanofi’s new insulin, called Toujeo Max SoloStar, is a long-acting insulin that can help people with diabetes achieve better blood sugar control.
The insulin contains three times the concentration of insulin glargine, the active ingredient in Lantus, another insulin product by Sanofi.
How Toujeo Max SoloStar works?
Toujeo Max SoloStar works by mimicking the action of natural insulin in the body. The three- times higher concentration of insulin glargine allows for a longer duration of action, up to 36 hours, compared to other long-acting insulins.
Benefits of Toujeo Max SoloStar
1. Improved Blood Sugar Control: Toujeo Max SoloStar helps to achieve better blood sugar control, reducing the risk of developing complications like nerve damage, kidney disease, and vision loss.
2. Convenient Dosage: The new insulin requires only one injection per day, which can improve compliance and convenience for patients.
3. Easy Administration: The pre-filled pen device makes it easy to administer the insulin, and the ultrafine needle reduces the pain associated with injections.
4. Flexibility: The insulin can be administered at any time of the day, making it suitable for people with variable schedules or those who prefer not to inject at night.
Who can use Toujeo Max SoloStar?
Toujeo Max SoloStar is approved for use by adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus who require basal insulin to regulate their blood sugar levels.
Precautions/Warnings for Using Toujeo Max SoloStar
1. Hypoglycemia: Toujeo Max SoloStar can cause low blood sugar levels, which can be life-threatening.
Patients should monitor their blood sugar levels regularly and report any symptoms of hypoglycemia, including confusion, weakness, sweating, and shaking, to their healthcare provider.
2. Allergic reactions: Toujeo Max SoloStar can cause allergic reactions, including skin rash, itching, and swelling. Patients should stop using the insulin and seek medical attention if they experience any of these symptoms.
3. Other medications: Toujeo Max SoloStar may interact with other medications, including oral diabetes medications, raising the risk of hypoglycemia. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are currently taking.
Conclusion
Toujeo Max SoloStar is a new insulin product that promises to help people with diabetes achieve better blood sugar control.
With its convenience, easy administration, and flexibility, this insulin product can be a game-changer for diabetics who require basal insulin therapy. However, patients should still exercise caution with the new products and report any adverse effects to their healthcare providers for proper attention.