PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician (PTCE)MedicationsMedium
A pharmacy technician is reviewing a medication order for a patient with diabetes. The order specifies 'Insulin Glargine 10 units subcutaneously every evening.' Which of the following is crucial information to provide regarding the administration of Insulin Glargine?
- AIt is a long-acting insulin and should not be mixed with other insulins.
- BIt should be mixed with rapid-acting insulin in the same syringe.
- CIt must be administered intravenously for immediate effect.
- DIt should be injected at least 30 minutes before a meal.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. It is a long-acting insulin and should not be mixed with other insulins.
Insulin Glargine is a long-acting basal insulin designed for a steady, prolonged release. Mixing it with other insulins can alter its pH and lead to precipitation, thus changing its pharmacokinetic profile and potentially causing unpredictable effects. Therefore, it should never be mixed with other insulins.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Mixing insulin glargine with other insulins is contraindicated due to changes in pH and precipitation.
- C. Insulin Glargine is for subcutaneous administration only; intravenous use is unsafe and inappropriate.
- D. This instruction applies to rapid-acting insulins, not long-acting glargine, which is typically dosed once daily regardless of mealtimes.
Insulin Glargine Administration
Insulin Glargine is a long-acting basal insulin that should be administered subcutaneously once daily and must not be mixed with other insulins.
- Provides a steady, peakless insulin level for 24 hours.
- Never mix with other insulins (e.g., rapid-acting) in the same syringe.
- Administer subcutaneously, typically in the evening.
Memory trick: Glargine is 'Long-lasting', 'Don't Mix', and 'Inject Once Daily'.