Toujeo: Indications, Dosage, Side Effects, Interactions, and Generic Options Diabetes mellitus is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases around the world. Fortunately, technological advancements in recent years have provided patients with several options for managing the disease, including insulin injections. Toujeo is a long-acting insulin manufactured by Sanofi that is used to control blood sugar levels in people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. This article will provide an overview of Toujeo, including its uses, dosage, demographic, side effects, interactions, and generic options. Uses of Toujeo Toujeo is a long-acting form of insulin that provides a steady release of insulin into the blood over 24 hours. Toujeo is used to control high blood sugar levels in adults living with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It is essential to note that Toujeo is not recommended for use in children under six years old. Dosage of Toujeo The Toujeo dosage varies based on several factors, including the patient's age, weight, and medical history. Toujeo is available as a prefilled pen with doses ranging from 1.5 mL to 900 units/ml. Typically, the starting dose for adults living with type 2 diabetes is 10 units once a day, while the starting dose for adults living with type 1 diabetes is 0.2 units/kg/day. Demographics of Toujeo Users Toujeo is used by adults over the age of 18 living with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It is essential to note that Toujeo is not recommended for use in children under six years old. Toujeo is widely used, with over 3 million prescriptions written since its introduction in 2015. Side Effects of Toujeo Like all medications, Toujeo may cause adverse side effects. The most common side effects of Toujeo include low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), allergic reactions, injection site reactions, and weight gain. Hypoglycemia is the most common side effect of Toujeo. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include sweating, shaking, confusion, and a fast heartbeat. If left untreated, hypoglycemia can cause seizures, coma, and even death. Patients should monitor their blood sugar levels carefully and follow their doctor's instructions on adjusting their Toujeo dosage to avoid hypoglycemia. Allergic reactions to Toujeo are rare but can be severe. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Patients experiencing an allergic reaction should seek medical attention immediately. Injection site reactions, such as redness, swelling, or itching, are also common. These typically resolve within a few days and are not serious. Weight gain is also a possible side effect of Toujeo. Insulin therapy can cause excess weight gain and increase the risk of obesity-related complications. Patients should watch their diet and exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight. Interactions with Toujeo Toujeo may interact with several medications, including beta-blockers, salicylates, and certain oral diabetes medications. Before starting Toujeo, patients should inform their doctor of all medications they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Generic Options of Toujeo There are currently no generic versions of Toujeo available in the United States. However, some patients may be able to use Lantus, a basal insulin that is similar to Toujeo. Lantus is also a premium insulin manufactured by Sanofi but is less potent than Toujeo, meaning a patient may require a higher dose of Lantus to achieve the same blood sugar control achieved by Toujeo. Patients should always consult their doctor before switching to a different medication. Conclusion Toujeo is a favored long-acting insulin used by millions of diabetic patients worldwide to control their blood sugar levels. Toujeo has helped many people live with their disease more comfortably, but its use also comes with potential side effects and drug interactions. Patients should keep their doctors informed of all medications they are taking, monitor their blood sugar levels carefully, and adjust their insulin dosage as instructed by their healthcare provider. Lastly, patients should always speak with their doctors regarding the appropriate medication and dosage for their specific condition.