Basaglar is another name for insulin glargine [1]. It is a brand name for a biosimilar insulin product [2].
What is insulin glargine?
Insulin glargine is a long-acting insulin that helps control blood sugar levels [3]. It is used to treat type 1 and type 2 diabetes [3]. Insulin glargine works by mimicking the action of naturally occurring insulin, reducing glucose production by the liver and increasing glucose uptake by peripheral tissues [4].
Who makes Basaglar?
Basaglar is manufactured by Eli Lilly and Company [1][5].
When does Basaglar patent expire?
The patent for Basaglar, or insulin glargine, is a complex issue with multiple patents covering different aspects of the drug and its production. Generally, biosimilar versions like Basaglar become available after the expiration of key patents protecting the original biologic drug [6]. Information on specific patent expiry dates for Basaglar can be found through patent tracking services such as DrugPatentWatch.com [7].
How does Basaglar compare to Lantus?
Basaglar is a biosimilar to Lantus (insulin glargine) [2]. Biosimilars are highly similar to their reference products, with no clinically meaningful differences in safety, purity, and potency [8]. They are approved by regulatory agencies after demonstrating this similarity [8]. Therefore, Basaglar is expected to have the same therapeutic effect as Lantus [2].
What are the risks of using insulin glargine?
Like all insulins, insulin glargine carries risks. The most common risk is hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) [3]. Other potential side effects include allergic reactions, lipodystrophy (changes in fat tissue at injection sites), and weight gain [4]. It is important to monitor blood sugar levels closely when using insulin glargine [3].
Can I switch from Lantus to Basaglar?
Patients can typically switch from Lantus to Basaglar under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Because Basaglar is a biosimilar, it is considered interchangeable with Lantus by some regulatory bodies, meaning it can be substituted for the reference product without a prescriber's intervention in certain situations [8]. However, it is always advisable to consult with a doctor or pharmacist before making any changes to diabetes medication [3].
How is insulin glargine administered?
Insulin glargine is administered via subcutaneous injection [4]. It is typically injected once daily at bedtime [3].
What is the pricing of Basaglar?
Pricing for Basaglar, like other insulins, can vary depending on insurance coverage, pharmacy, and geographic location. As a biosimilar, Basaglar is generally intended to offer a more affordable alternative to its reference product, Lantus [2][8].
What are the regulatory approvals for insulin glargine products?
Insulin glargine products like Basaglar undergo rigorous review by regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure their safety and efficacy [8]. The FDA's approval pathway for biosimilars, including the designation of interchangeability, ensures they meet high standards [8].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[2] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/product/basaglar
[3] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/insulin-glargine
[4] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/search?q=insulin+glargine
[5] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/manufacturer/eli-lilly
[6] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/expiary-dates
[7] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/brand/basaglar
[8] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/biosimilars/questions-and-answers-biosimilar-and-interchangeable- Gfbiologics