Lantus SoloStar Pen: Do People with Prediabetes Need Medicine?

Lantus SoloStar Pen: Do People with Prediabetes Need Medicine?

Lantus SoloStar Pen: Do People with Prediabetes Need Medicine?

The current medical consensus stratifies people with prediabetes into different risk categories. Those at lower risk are advised to start with lifestyle interventions. This includes dietary changes, increased physical activity, and weight management. For overweight or obese individuals, achieving a body mass index (BMI) close to 24 kg/m² or losing at least 7% of body weight is crucial. If after six months these targets are not met (for example, fasting blood sugar in impaired fasting glucose (IFG) remains above 6.1 mmol/L, or two-hour blood sugar in impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) exceeds 7.8 mmol/L), or if hyperglycemia progresses, drug intervention may be necessary.

Clinical trials have demonstrated that medications like metformin, α-glucosidase inhibitors, thiazolidinediones (TZDs), GLP-1 receptor agonists, and the weight loss drug orlistat can effectively reduce the risk of developing diabetes in individuals with prediabetes. Among these, metformin and α-glucosidase inhibitors have well-documented safety profiles for long-term use.

While drug intervention can pose economic and psychological burdens on patients, oral medications are convenient and have proven efficacy in delaying the progression from prediabetes to diabetes. For individuals who struggle to adhere to an enhanced lifestyle intervention, starting with medications may be the best option.

For those who diligently follow lifestyle changes for over six months but still have poor blood sugar control (fasting blood sugar above 6.1 mmol/L and/or postprandial blood sugar above 7.8 mmol/L), or for those with progressive hyperglycemia, drug treatment becomes a viable option. Especially for younger individuals, those with high health needs, or those who are economically well-off, medications like the Lantus SoloStar Pen can be considered.

The Lantus SoloStar Pen, a long-acting insulin, is often used in managing diabetes and could be part of a comprehensive treatment plan for those transitioning from prediabetes to diabetes. It provides consistent insulin delivery, helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

While lifestyle interventions are the first step in managing prediabetes, medications, including options like the Lantus SoloStar Pen, play a critical role for those unable to meet blood sugar targets through lifestyle changes alone. Consulting with healthcare providers to tailor the best treatment plan is essential for effective management and prevention of diabetes progression.
Back to blog

Leave a comment