Switching to Lantus

[Lisaloowho13]

Just a question

My cat Harlow has been on Vetsulin for one month now with poor results, and we cannot get him regulated. His bg rarely goes below 200. My vet just keeps upping the vetsulin dose. He's now on two units twice per day and he almost always hit's his nadir at the 3 hour mark. I'm calling on Friday and asking to switch him to Lantus. My question is how safe is it to change insulin's? I'm just nervous (as per usual) about changing medication. I know the longer it takes to regulate the less likely it is to achieve recommission (Sorry I haven't updated his spreadsheet)

 

[Basic's Mom]

https://felinediabetes.com/FDMB/thr...sage-help-again-amps-218.280802/#post-3098147

Saw this post and thought it would be helpful for you. There are links including explaining why vetsulin isn't the best for cats.

You also need to including your cat's info in your signature. Use the search feature (magnifying glass) to find out what all should be included in your signature.

 

[Bron and Sheba (GA)]

It is very safe to swap from vetsulin to Lantus.
I would recommend once you get the Lantus insulin, to come here and ask about the starting dose of the Lantus.
In the meantime keep getting as many tests as you can so we can see how your kitty is reacting to the dose of vetsulin,
If you could also setup your signature with all the necessary information on it for us, we will be very happy to assist you
Information on the signature here in HELP US HELP YOU
Looking forward to helping you with the swap!

 

[Wendy&Neko]

My question is how safe is it to change insulin's?

Been there, done that. We went from Caninsulin (what Vetsulin is called in the rest of the world) to Lantus. Both Neko and I were happier with the result. The one problem was I followed the vet's advice for starting dose and it took forever to get back where I should have started. If you can update at least the last couple weeks of data, we can help you with a suggested starting dose so that doesn't happen to you.

One bonus they don't always mention with switching - most of the Lantus syringes are smaller gauge than the Vetsulin ones, so easier to give the insulin. Lantus is also more concentrated, which is why you need the U-100 syringes instead of U-40 ones.

 

[Diane Tyler's Mom GA]

Previous post intro post
https://felinediabetes.com/FDMB/threads/diagnosed-11-6-and-feeling-hopeless.283616/#post-3123541

 

[Larry and Kitties]

It can take a loooonge time to regulate. I have been working on my Wiggles for maybe 5 years with three different insulins and tests and a dental has not helped. Problem is that I can't get consistent/repeatable BGs using same food and dose. For a couple of days I get good results then either no real drop in BG and sometimes a very low PS. I have also changed insulin-needle length and the injection area. Similar with My Merle but ony had hum for ~2 ½ years.I have had three cats go into remission and I can maintain my aero cat;s BG between about 80 and 130. Thus do not think it is you and only a month of trying is not a lot of time.

 

[Sienne and Gabby (GA)]

Larry has a point. Not every cat will become tightly regulated or go into remission. However, you are likely to have a better chance with Lantus (glargine) than Vetsulin.