Lantus, a long-acting insulin analog, is not being discontinued. Instead, Sanofi, the manufacturer, has ceased the production and sale of its U.S. Lantus SoloSTAR prefilled pen. This decision affects only the prefilled pen delivery device and does not apply to other Lantus formulations or its international markets [1].
What Lantus products are affected?
The discontinuation specifically targets the Lantus SoloSTAR prefilled insulin pen sold in the United States. This means that patients who use this particular pen for their Lantus (insulin glargine) therapy will need to switch to an alternative delivery method for their medication [1].
Why is Sanofi stopping the Lantus pen in the US?
Sanofi's decision to discontinue the Lantus SoloSTAR prefilled pen in the U.S. is part of a strategic shift to focus on newer insulin products and delivery systems. The company has introduced other insulin options, including biosimilar versions of insulin glargine and next-generation insulins, and aims to streamline its product portfolio [1].
What are the alternatives to the Lantus SoloSTAR pen?
Patients who used the Lantus SoloSTAR prefilled pen can transition to other ways of administering Lantus insulin. These include vials and syringes, which allow for manual measurement of doses, or other insulin pens that may be available with different formulations or from other manufacturers. Additionally, Sanofi offers biosimilar versions of insulin glargine, such as Semglee, which can be used with compatible pen devices [1].
When did the Lantus SoloSTAR pen production stop?
Sanofi announced the cessation of production for the Lantus SoloSTAR prefilled pen in the U.S. toward the end of 2023. While production has stopped, existing supplies may still be available for a limited time through pharmacies [1].
How does this affect Lantus insulin availability?
The discontinuation of the Lantus SoloSTAR prefilled pen in the U.S. does not mean Lantus insulin itself is being removed from the market. Lantus is still available in vial form, and biosimilar versions like Semglee are also on the market. Patients and healthcare providers need to plan for the transition to an alternative delivery method [1].
What are biosimilars of Lantus?
Biosimilars are biological products that are highly similar to and have no clinically meaningful differences from an existing approved biological medicine, in this case, Lantus. Semglee is a biosimilar of insulin glargine approved in the U.S. and can be used as an alternative to Lantus [1].
Sources:
1. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/news/sanofi-discontinues-lantus-solostar-prefilled-pen-in-the-us