13 Toujeo Side Effects: Common, Mild and Serious
Introduction
Toujeo is a long-acting insulin prescribed to help people manage their diabetes through glucose control. It is important for those who use Toujeo to be aware of and understand the potential side effects of the medication. In this article, we will discuss the common, mild, and serious side effects of Toujeo, as well as other questions related to Toujeo and its potential side effects.
We will look at how Toujeo works, how to take Toujeo, and the risks associated with using the medication. By the end of this article, you should have a better understanding of the potential adverse effects of Toujeo.
How Toujero works?
Toujeo is a long-acting form of insulin used to manage diabetes. It is a synthetic insulin analog that is prescribed to adults and children with diabetes to help keep their blood sugar levels in balance. It is often used in combination with other diabetes medications, such as metformin and basal insulins. Toujeo start working about 6 hours after injection and its effects can last up to 36.
When you eat carbohydrates, your body breaks the sugars down into glucose. The glucose is then absorbed into the bloodstream, causing a spike in blood sugar levels. Toujeo works by binding to the insulin receptors in your body, which helps to reduce the glucose uptake from your blood.
This helps to keep your blood sugar levels balanced. Unfortunately, like any medication, Toujeo can have side effects. Common side effects associated with Toujeo use include low blood sugar, nausea, vomiting, and headache. Other more serious side effects associated with Toujeo use may include allergic reactions and weight gain. If you experience any of these side effects, you should contact your doctor immediately.
How to take Toujero?
Toujeo is an injectable medication used to help manage blood sugar levels in people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The medication is injected under the skin and should be taken once a day, usually in the morning. The needle should be changed each time Toujeo is given.
Do not inject too deeply, and stop using the medication if redness or swelling occurs around the injection site. By understanding and following the instructions, taking Toujero correctly, and being aware of the potential side effects, people can ensure they are getting the most out of their treatment.
Common Side Effects of Toujero
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia, one of the most common side effects of Toujeo, is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. It occurs when the body's sugar levels drop lower than 70mg/dl. Symptoms of hypoglycemia can include confusion, sweating, shakiness, clammy skin, dizziness, hunger, and a rapid heartbeat. If left untreated, it can lead to seizures, coma, and even death.
In order to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia, patients should always monitor their blood sugar levels carefully. This includes eating meals on a consistent schedule and maintaining healthy eating habits. It is also important to follow the dosage instructions from your doctor and any other doctor-prescribed medication that you are taking.
Additionally, alcohol consumption should be kept to a minimum and hypoglycemic episodes should be followed up by your doctor for further evaluation. If you experience any of the symptoms of hypoglycemia, it is important to take action right away in order to prevent it from becoming a life-threatening emergency.
This may include eating or drinking something that contains sugar, such as fruit juice or candy, and testing your blood sugar level with a glucometer. If the symptoms do not go away after 15 minutes, medical attention should be sought immediately. Toujeo can be a valuable medication for people with diabetes, but it is important to be aware of the potential side effects. Recognizing and managing hypoglycemia is essential in order to prevent any adverse health events.
Nausea
Nausea is a common side effect of Toujeo. If you experience nausea with Toujeo, you may want to adjust the timing of your injection. Additionally, it may help to eat a light snack before or after the injection to help reduce nausea.
If nausea persists, it may be a sign of hypoglycemia or an allergic reaction to Toujeo. In either case, it is important to contact your doctor to discuss other treatment options. Your doctor may suggest an anti-nausea medication or an alternative type of insulin.
Vomiting
Vomiting is one of the possible side effects of Toujeo, a long-acting form of insulin. Vomiting is a common side effect, though it's usually mild. In some cases, it can be more serious. As with all side effects, it's important to understand the signs and symptoms, as well as how to manage them. The most common symptom of Toujeo-related vomiting is nausea.
Other symptoms can include abdominal pain, dizziness, and fatigue. In severe cases, vomiting can be accompanied by fever, headache, or dehydration. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to contact your doctor. If you experience mild vomiting, it may be considered to be normal and not require any treatment.
However, if you experience more severe vomiting, a low-dose antiemetic drug, such as prochlorperazine, can help reduce it. If you're experiencing vomiting that's not related to Toujeo, over-the-counter medications or dietary changes are usually recommended. For example, you may be advised to eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day or to avoid certain types of foods that can trigger vomiting.
Weight Gain
Weight gain is a serious concern for people with diabetes, as it can lead to an increased risk of developing serious health conditions such as heart disease and stroke. Unfortunately, weight gain can also lead to a decreased quality of life, as people may be more self-conscious about their appearance.
The most common type of weight gain associated with Toujeo is water retention. This type of weight gain can often be minimized or prevented with the help of dietary changes and increased physical activity. To help prevent weight gain or to manage it, it is important to focus on lifestyle changes, such as increased physical activity and healthier dietary choices, to help manage weight gain. Additionally, adjusting your dosage of Toujeo or switching to a different type of insulin may also help manage your weight gain.
Itchy Skin
One of the common side effects of the diabetes medication Toujeo (insulin glargine) is itchy skin. While itchy skin can be annoying and uncomfortable, it is typically mild. Itchy skin can be caused by either Toujeo or by high blood sugar levels. Therefore, if you experience any itchy sensations while taking Toujeo, it is important to test your blood sugar levels to determine the cause.
If the itchiness persists or worsens, an alternative medication or adjustment of Toujeo dosage can be suggested. It is important to keep in mind that Toujeo may not be the cause of the itching, so check your blood glucose first. If you experience severe itching, hives, or swelling, seek medical attention immediately as these can be signs of an allergic reaction. In some cases, itching can be managed with over-the-counter antihistamines or lotions.
Mild Side Effects of Toujero
Common Cold
One of the most common Toujeo side effects is the common cold. Symptoms can include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, coughing, sneezing, itchy eyes, and a headache. When affected with the common cold, it is important to get plenty of rest, drink lots of fluids, and use a humidifier to keep the air moist in your home. Over-the-counter medications such as decongestants, antihistamines, and pain relievers can also be used to help alleviate symptoms.
In some cases, Toujeo side effects can make the common cold worse. For instance, coughing can worsen when taking Toujeo, and respiratory infections like bronchitis and pneumonia can also be triggered as a result of Toujeo's side effects.
If you are taking Toujeo and experience cold-like symptoms, seek medical advice accordingly. It is also important to note that Toujeo can interact with other medications, such as antibiotics, so it is important to discuss any medications you are taking with your doctor before taking Toujeo.
To reduce your risk of getting the common cold, be sure to wash your hands often and avoid close contact with people who are sick. Additionally, eating a nutritious diet, getting enough rest, and exercising regularly can help boost your immune system and help you stay healthy.
Swelling of Legs or Arms
Swelling (edema) in the legs or arms is one of Toujeo's side effects. This side effect is commonly seen in people with Type 2 diabetes who take Toujeo, especially those with existing kidney or heart disease. It is important to note that this is not an indication of any serious systemic problem, but rather an indication of poor circulatory or renal function. It is important to keep an eye on the swelling when taking Toujeo, as it can be a sign of a more serious condition.
If the swelling becomes more frequent or severe, it is important to speak with doctor immediately that can assess the individual’s condition and determine if the swelling is due to an underlying condition that needs to be treated. Toujeo may also interfere with the body’s ability to regulate water balance, leading to edema in the legs and arms. In this case, it is important to monitor the individual’s diet and fluid intake.
Injection Site Reaction
Injection site reactions are among the most common side effects of Toujeo. These reactions are related to the site of Toujeo injection and can include redness, itching, swelling, bruising, and pain. In some cases, these injection site reactions may also result in scarring or infection at the injection site. Toujeo is normally injected subcutaneously (into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin) with an appropriate dosage.
Depending on the patient, the injection site may range from the abdomen to the thigh and may be changed over time to minimize the risk of injection site reactions. When Toujeo is injected, individuals may experience local discomfort, such as pain and redness, at the injection site. In some cases, these reactions may be severe and last more than a few days. Furthermore, individuals may experience swelling, itching, bruising, and even infection of the injection site. Be sure to take note of recommended injection site care instructions to minimize the risk of injection site reactions.
Cough
It is important to note that, while coughing can be a side effect of Toujeo, it may also be a sign of a more serious condition such as an allergic reaction. If you experience coughing or any other side effects while using Toujeo, it is important to seek medical help. In rare cases, however, the cough can be more severe and may require further medical treatment.
Symptoms of a severe cough include coughing up blood, coughing up large amounts of mucus, or a cough that persists for longer than two weeks. If you experience any of these symptoms while using Toujeo, it is important to seek medical advice right away.
Skin Rash
One of the potential side effects of Toujeo is the development of a skin rash. As with any medication, allergic reactions to Toujeo can occur, leading to a rash. If you experience any signs of a rash, such as redness, bumps, or itching, seek medical advice immediately.
A rash may indicate an allergic reaction to Toujeo. Reactions vary from person to person, with some more extreme than others. Rash symptoms may range from mild to severe and may also include swelling, hives, and/or itching. If you experience a rash after taking Toujeo, you should seek medical attention.
Serious Side Effects of Toujero
Severe Hypoglycemia
Severe hypoglycemia is one of the most serious Toujeo side effects experienced by people with diabetes. Hypoglycemia, commonly referred to as low blood sugar, occurs when the level of sugar in the bloodstream drops too low, resulting in dangerous health consequences. Severe hypoglycemia is especially dangerous and occurs when blood sugar drops below 54 mg/dL.
When a person experiences severe hypoglycemia while using Toujeo, they may experience symptoms such as confusion, shakiness, trembling, dizziness, excessive sweating, seizures, loss of consciousness, and even coma. It is important to know the signs and symptoms of severe hypoglycemia, as this condition can be life-threatening and should be treated immediately.
If you experience any of the above-mentioned symptoms while using Toujeo, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. If you have been prescribed Toujeo, it is important to be aware of the potential side effect of severe hypoglycemia, as well as the signs and symptoms that may point to this condition. By actively monitoring your blood sugar levels and recognizing the warning signs of severe hypoglycemia, you can help to ensure your safety and well-being.
Hypokalemia
One of the more serious side effects associated with Toujeo (insulin glargine) is hypokalemia, otherwise known as low potassium levels. Hypokalemia can be defined as having a potassium level that is too low for the body to function properly. Normal levels range from about 3.5 to 5.2 millimoles per liter (mmol/L).
Low levels of potassium can lead to a variety of concerning physical symptoms, including fatigue, muscle weakness, abdominal discomfort, constipation, and irregular heartbeats. If you are taking Toujeo and experience any of the symptoms associated with hypokalemia, seek medical help immediately.
Severe Allergic Reaction
One of the very rare and serious Toujeo side effects is a severe allergic reaction, which requires immediate medical attention. Allergic reactions to Toujeo are caused by a reaction between the active ingredients in Toujeo and the body, which can result in an anaphylactic shock. Symptoms of severe allergic side effects include a rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, rapid pulse and dizziness.
While severe allergic reactions are rare and not common, it is possible that they may occur due to the individual’s sensitivity to certain ingredients in Toujeo. People should also be aware of signs of an allergic reaction, including the development of a rash or hives, swelling of the tongue, or difficulty breathing. If these symptoms are experienced, patients should seek medical attention immediately to have the symptoms assessed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Toujeo cause Weight Gain?
Yes, Toujeo causes weight gain. It is important to note that weight gain can have many causes or contributors. In some cases, it may be caused by other medicines, lifestyle or dietary factors, or other health conditions. If you are taking Toujeo and experience weight gain, it is recommended to speak to your doctor to discuss the possibility that it could be related to the medication.
The exact mechanism behind Toujeo and weight gain is not yet understood, but there are a few potential explanations. One is Toujeo may cause an increase in appetite or cravings for sweets, which can lead to weight gain over time. Weight gain is a serious side effect and should not be taken lightly. It can lead to obesity and a number of associated health conditions, such as hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.
Does Toujeo cause Fatigue?
A generalized sense of tiredness, weariness, exhaustion, or lack of energy is referred to as fatigue. It is a typical sign of diabetes. It can be brought on by a number of things, such as drugs, illnesses, lifestyle choices, and more. Fatigue is listed as a side effect for Toujeo. When Toujeo is first administered, fatigue is more prevalent while the body gets used to the new medication.
It can also happen if the dose is changed or is increased above what the doctor has prescribed. Although fatigue is regarded as a Toujeo side effect, severe episodes of fatigue should not be disregarded and should be addressed to the doctor. Patients who have diabetes should be especially aware of this since persistent weariness may be an indication of major medical consequences. If a patient is overly exhausted, they should talk to their doctor since Toujeo dosage may need to be changed.
Does Toujeo cause Hair loss?
A few instances of people reporting hair loss after using Basaglar have been documented. But it's crucial to remember that pinpointing the exact cause isn't always easy.
The patient's underlying medical issues and any other medications they may be taking could also be contributing factors to this hair loss. It's also conceivable that the hair loss is caused by something else unrelated to Basaglar. To determine the precise reason of any unusual hair loss, seek medical assistance.
Does Toujeo cause Burping?
When it comes to Toujeo side effects, burping is not one of the most commonly reported in any clinical studies. However, it is still possible to experience burping while taking Toujeo. Typically, when we think of burping, we think of it as a sign of indigestion or nausea. This is caused by the insulin being released into the bloodstream, which can lead to gas buildup.
The gas buildup in the stomach can cause the feeling of needing to burp. It is important to note that burping associated with Toujeo is typically not a cause for concern, and it should pass in time. If you experience frequent and excessive burping, however, you should consult your doctor.
It is possible that your body is not metabolizing the insulin correctly, and it may need to reassess your medication dosage or regimen. In conclusion, burping is not a common side effect of Toujeo, but it is possible. It is typically not a cause for concern and should pass in time, but if it occurs frequently and excessively, it is important to speak to your doctor to ensure that your medication dosage or regimen is appropriate.
Are Toujeo and Heart Failure related?
Heart failure is a serious health condition that can have many causes. Toujeo, a long-acting form of insulin, can be a factor in the development of heart failure, particularly when it is used over long periods of time or in combination with other medications. While Toujeo is generally considered safe and effective for managing diabetes, it can cause fluid retention in the body, which can lead to an increased risk of developing heart failure.
It is especially important for those taking Toujeo to be aware of the signs and symptoms of heart failure, as well as to monitor their blood pressure and weight regularly. Additionally, individuals should seek medical advice if they experience any of the symptoms associated with the condition, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, or swelling in the legs and feet.
Furthermore, those with a pre-existing history of heart failure or other medical conditions should discuss the use of Toujeo with their health care provider. By being aware of the potential relationship between Toujeo and heart failure, individuals can take steps to reduce their risk and enjoy a healthier life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Toujeo is a long-acting insulin medication that is prescribed to help people manage their diabetes. It is important for those using Toujeo to be aware of the potential side effects and know how to take the medication properly. While there are mild and serious side effects associated with Toujeo, there are also many benefits that come with taking this medication.
To ensure the best experience for those taking Toujeo, it is important to stay informed about the potential side effects, how to take the medication, and any risks associated with using it.
About The Author
Who is Dr. Ergin? Dr. Ahmet Ergin is an endocrinologist interested in and passionate about diabetes care. Dr. Ergin earned his medical degree with honors at Marmara University School of Medicine in Istanbul, Turkey. Then, he completed his internal medicine residency and endocrinology fellowship at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio.
He is a board-certified Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism physician. He is also a certified diabetes education specialist. Disclaimer: Any information on diseases and treatments on this website is for general guidance only. It must never be a substitute for the advice your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional provides. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare professional’s advice with questions regarding your medical condition.