PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician (PTCE)MedicationsHard
A pharmacy technician is reviewing a prescription for 'Insulin Glargine 10 units subcutaneously once daily at bedtime.' The patient asks if they should shake the vial vigorously before drawing up the dose. What is the correct instruction for handling Insulin Glargine?
- ANo, shaking is only for NPH insulin, not long-acting insulins.
- BYes, but only if the insulin appears cloudy or has precipitates.
- CYes, always shake insulin vials vigorously to ensure proper mixing.
- DNo, Insulin Glargine should not be shaken; gently roll it if mixing is needed.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. No, Insulin Glargine should not be shaken; gently roll it if mixing is needed.
Insulin Glargine (Lantus, Toujeo, Basaglar) is a clear, long-acting insulin analog that should not be shaken. Shaking can cause foaming, which can lead to inaccurate dosing, and can also damage the insulin protein, reducing its effectiveness. It should be gently rolled between the palms if any mixing is truly needed (though it's typically a clear solution that doesn't separate).
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While NPH insulin is the only one that typically requires gentle rolling/mixing (and appears cloudy), the core instruction for Glargine is still not to shake.
- B. Insulin Glargine is a clear solution and should not appear cloudy; cloudiness or precipitates would indicate a problem, not a need for shaking.
- C. Vigorous shaking is generally discouraged for most insulins and is specifically contraindicated for clear insulins like Glargine.
Insulin Glargine Handling
Insulin Glargine is a clear, long-acting insulin that should not be shaken. Vigorous agitation can cause foaming, inaccurate dosing, and damage to the insulin protein.
- Clear solution
- Long-acting insulin analog
- Do NOT shake
- Gently roll if mixing is needed (uncommon for clear insulins)
Memory trick: Glargine: Gently Roll, Never Rock.