People get personal
Getting on and staying on insulin can be daunting. There’s a lot to learn and more to manage. But you’re not alone. Listen to the people who’ve come before you and have figured out ways to manage their diabetes and live full and productive lives. Here are their inspiring stories.
Transcript for Toujeo_DTC_Branded_patient_video_Bill_2022_ISI_Update
What is Toujeo U-300 (insulin glargine) injection 300 Units/mL?Prescription Toujeo is a long-acting man-made insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults and children who are 6 years of age and older with diabetes mellitus.
• Toujeo is not for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis
• It is not known if Toujeo is safe and effective in children under 6 years of age
Bill Rodriguez I love living on the coast of California. At night, my wife and I go to sleep listening to the sound of crashing waves. During the day, we work on projects around the house. We also love to garden. We're really stoked about our new lemon tree. I guess that's fitting because I believe when life gives you lemons, you make lemonade.
Bill Rodriguez And believe me, as a person who’s lived with type one diabetes for 45 years, I've had lots of practice. My grandmother and father both had diabetes, so I was disappointed, but not surprised when I was diagnosed. Even though I had watched my dad inject himself, it was still scary being prescribed insulin in high school, and I wasn't very compliant initially.
Bill Rodriguez I eventually learned to handle needles, but I struggled to keep my blood sugar under control. In my early thirties, I finally started on an injectable that worked well for me. But by then the damage was done. I had so many diabetes related complications. Heart and kidney problems, neuropathy in my feet that caused me to lose a couple of toes.
Bill Rodriguez I also had retinopathy in my eye. That was way too many lemons, and I knew something had to change. I realized I had spent years walking out of my doctor's office without asking about medications, without asking how my body worked, without asking anything, really. I failed myself by not learning more about my diabetes and my treatment options. But I began to advocate for myself, and I found a doctor who helped me understand more about my diabetes and really listened to my questions.
Bill Rodriguez He was the one who suggested I try Toujeo. This time I did the research. I looked into Toujeo, and I really liked what I learned. I liked that it’s long lasting, and it was really encouraging to know that so many others were taking it with good results. That's when I said. Let's give it a try. And I'm so glad I did.
Bill Rodriguez Toujeo works well for me. It helps me keep my blood sugar where I need it. And because the Toujeo Max pen holds more insulin and can give a larger dose in one shot, that means fewer injections for me, which I really like. I've learned over the years that if you want a good outcome, you have to put the work in. The diet…
Bill Rodriguez …the exercise, talking with my doctor, that's on me. But the right treatment is key too and I'm really glad I have Toujeo for that. I really shudder to think where my life would be if I hadn't found the right doctor and the right treatment. You know, my grandson and daughter came to live with us when I was still struggling to manage my diabetes.
Bill Rodriguez At that time, I wondered how I would run and play catch and do all those things I dreamed of. But we do. We go to the beach. I take him skateboarding. He's my best companion. It took me a while to figure out what to do when life gave me lemons. But I'm so glad I never gave up.
Important Safety Information for Toujeo U-300 (insulin glargine) injection
Do not use Toujeo if you have low blood sugar or if you are allergic to insulin or any of the ingredients in Toujeo.
Do not share your pen(s) with other people, even if the needle has been changed. You may give other people a serious infection or get a serious infection from them.
Before starting Toujeo, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including if you have liver or kidney problems, if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.
Change (rotate) your injection sites within the area you chose with each dose to reduce your risk of getting pitted or thickened skin (lipodystrophy) and skin with lumps (localized cutaneous amyloidosis) at the injection sites. Do not use the same spot for each injection or inject where the skin is pitted, thickened, lumpy, tender, bruised, scaly, hard, scarred, or damaged.
Heart failure can occur if you are taking insulin together with pills called TZDs (thiazolidinediones), even if you have never had heart failure or other heart problems. If you have heart failure, it may get worse while you take TZDs with Toujeo. Your treatment with TZDs and Toujeo may need to be changed or stopped by your doctor if you have new or worsening heart failure. Tell your doctor if you have any new or worsening symptoms including:
• Shortness of breath
• Sudden weight gain
• Swelling of your ankles or feet
Tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including OTC medicines, vitamins, and supplements, and herbal supplements.
Toujeo should be taken at the same time once a day. Test your blood sugar levels daily while using any insulin. Do not change your dose or type of insulin without talking to your doctor. Verify you have the correct insulin before each injection. Do NOT use a syringe to remove Toujeo from your pen. Your dose for Toujeo may be different from other insulins you have taken. Any change of insulin should be made cautiously and only under medical supervision.
Do NOT dilute or mix Toujeo with any other insulin or solution. It will not work as intended and you may lose blood sugar control, which could be serious. Use Toujeo only if the solution is clear and colorless with no particles visible.
While using Toujeo, do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Toujeo affects you. Don’t drink alcohol or use other medicines that contain alcohol.
The most common side effect of Toujeo is low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which may be serious and life-threatening. Severe hypoglycemia may cause harm to your heart or brain. Symptoms of serious low blood sugar may include shaking, sweating, fast heartbeat, and blurred vision. The long-acting effect of Toujeo may delay recovery from low blood sugar compared to shorter-acting insulins.
Toujeo may cause severe allergic reactions that can lead to death. Get medical help right away if you have:
• A rash over your whole body
• Shortness of breath
• Swelling of your face, tongue, or throat
• Extreme drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion
• Trouble breathing
• Fast heartbeat
• Sweating
Toujeo may have additional side effects including swelling, weight gain, low potassium, and injection site reactions which may include change in fat tissue, skin thickening, redness, swelling, and itching.
Toujeo SoloStar and Toujeo Max SoloStar are single-patient-use prefilled insulin pens. It is important to perform a safety test when using a new pen for the first time. Talk to your doctor about proper injection technique and follow instructions in the Instruction Leaflet that comes with your Toujeo SoloStar or Toujeo Max SoloStar pen.
©2022 sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC. All rights reserved.
MAT-US-2108218-v3.0-10/2022
Is it Time to Consider Toujeo Video Transcript
From 00:00:01-00:00:13
My goals are to be healthy and make sure I'm doing my best to manage my diabetes. My diabetes has changed over time and I wonder if the way I manage it needs to as well, I'm ready to talk to my doctor and learn about my options.
From 00:00:14-00:00:20
One option is Toujeo (insulin glargine) injection 300 Units/mL.
From 00:00:21-00:00:39
Prescription Toujeo is a long-acting man-made insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults and children who are 6 years of age and older with diabetes mellitus.
- Toujeo is not for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis
- It is not known if Toujeo is safe and effective in children under 6 years of age.
From 00:00:40-00:00:49
once daily Toujeo is proven to provide blood sugar control and significant A1C reduction for adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
From 00:00:50-00:00:55
Do not use Toujeo if you have low blood sugar or if you are allergic to insulin or any of the ingredients in Toujeo.
From 00:01:02-00:01:10
Toujeo works by slowly releasing small amounts of insulin to provide continuous glucose lowering activities that last beyond 24 hours.
From 00:01:21-00:05:11
What is Toujeo U-300 (insulin glargine) injection 300 Units/mL?
Prescription Toujeo is a long-acting man-made insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults and children who are 6 years of age and older with diabetes mellitus.
- Toujeo is not for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis
- It is not known if Toujeo is safe and effective in children under 6 years of age
Important Safety Information for Toujeo U-300 (insulin glargine) injection
Do not use Toujeo if you have low blood sugar or if you are allergic to insulin or any of the ingredients in Toujeo.
Do not share your pen(s) with other people, even if the needle has been changed. You may give other people a serious infection or get a serious infection from them.
Before starting Toujeo, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including if you have liver or kidney problems, if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.
Change (rotate) your injection sites within the area you chose with each dose to reduce your risk of getting pitted or thickened skin (lipodystrophy) and skin with lumps (localized cutaneous amyloidosis) at the injection sites. Do not use the same spot for each injection or inject where the skin is pitted, thickened, lumpy, tender, bruised, scaly, hard, scarred, or damaged.
Heart failure can occur if you are taking insulin together with pills called TZDs (thiazolidinediones), even if you have never had heart failure or other heart problems. If you have heart failure, it may get worse while you take TZDs with Toujeo. Your treatment with TZDs and Toujeo may need to be changed or stopped by your doctor if you have new or worsening heart failure. Tell your doctor if you have any new or worsening symptoms including:
- Shortness of breath
- Sudden weight gain
- Swelling of your ankles or feet
Tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including OTC medicines, vitamins, and supplements, and herbal supplements.
Toujeo should be taken at the same time once a day. Test your blood sugar levels daily while using any insulin. Do not change your dose or type of insulin without talking to your doctor. Verify you have the correct insulin before each injection. Do NOT use a syringe to remove Toujeo from your pen. Your dose for Toujeo may be different from other insulins you have taken. Any change of insulin should be made cautiously and only under medical supervision.
Do NOT dilute or mix Toujeo with any other insulin or solution. It will not work as intended and you may lose blood sugar control, which could be serious. Use Toujeo only if the solution is clear and colorless with no particles visible.
While using Toujeo, do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Toujeo affects you. Don’t drink alcohol or use other medicines that contain alcohol.
The most common side effect of Toujeo is low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which may be serious and life-threatening. Severe hypoglycemia may cause harm to your heart or brain. Symptoms of serious low blood sugar may include shaking, sweating, fast heartbeat, and blurred vision. The long-acting effect of Toujeo may delay recovery from low blood sugar compared to shorter-acting insulins.
Toujeo may cause severe allergic reactions that can lead to death. Get medical help right away if you have:
- A rash over your whole body
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling of your face, tongue, or throat
- Extreme drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion
- Trouble breathing
- Fast heartbeat
- Sweating
Toujeo may have additional side effects including swelling, weight gain, low potassium, and injection site reactions which may include change in fat tissue, skin thickening, redness, swelling, and itching.
Toujeo SoloStar and Toujeo Max SoloStar are single-patient-use prefilled insulin pens. It is important to perform a safety test when using a new pen for the first time. Talk to your doctor about proper injection technique and follow instructions in the Instruction Leaflet that comes with your Toujeo SoloStar or Toujeo Max SoloStar pen.
©2022 sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC. All rights reserved.
MAT-US-2007148-v2.0-11/2022
If I Knew Then Video Transcript
Bill: You know, I find that humor makes people feel better. As someone who's had type 2 diabetes for almost 20 years. I find it helps me get through some pretty rough spots.
I guess you could say humor comes naturally to me. I remember, as a kid, I thought I could be pretty funny. I did a stand-up act years ago in the late 80s, played Comedy clubs all around the country.
I couldn't help it. I was always writing jokes or finding the humor in things. Comedy was fun. But then I thought it was time to settle down. I work as a project manager now, but I still love to see people smiling and laughing. I dress up like Santa at Christmas time for the kids at the local hospitals. With this beard, I'm pretty convincing. It's fun for the kids, and it's good for me to see them happy.
When I was first diagnosed with diabetes, it definitely changed how I went about my life. For a while, I manage diabetes with medications, my family is very supportive. My wife Tish gives me endless encouragement and support. She has a good sense of humor, too. And she lightens up my day. Then I went through a period where I admit I wasn't doing that whole due diligence thing. Wasn't on top of it.
I didn't eat right, I didn't exercise much. After a long day at my office and commuting I didn't have the energy to work out plus I wasn't testing my blood sugar levels every day but I've never been one to quit. I'm just not that guy. It's like someone flipped a switch. I said to myself, “Bill you got to stop ignoring the obvious. This diabetes thing isn't going to go away. Get with the program, do whatever you got to do to keep it in check.” So, I talked about it with my doctor and told her about how my diabetes management was going, she explained that diabetes can change over time and that the ways you manage it may have to as well. That's when we decided that Toujeo (insulin glargine) injection 300 Units/mL was an option for me.
Voiceover:
From the makers of Lantus® (insulin glargine) injection 100 Units/mL.
Prescription Toujeo is a long-acting man-made insulin used to control high blood sugar in
adults and children who are 6 years of age and older with diabetes mellitus.
• Toujeo is not for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis
• It is not known if Toujeo is safe and effective in children under 6 years of age
Bill: Once daily Toujeo provides proven full 24-hour blood sugar control and significant A1C reductions in adults, with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Voiceover:
Important Safety Information for Toujeo U-300 (insulin glargine) injection.
Do not use Toujeo if you have low blood sugar or if you are allergic to insulin or any of the
ingredients in Toujeo.
Bill: I take Toujeo once a day at the same time every day.
Voiceover:
Toujeo works by slowly releasing small amounts of insulin, to provide continuous glucose-lowering activity, that last beyond 24 hours.
Voiceover:
The most common side effect of any insulin including Toujeo is low blood sugar
(hypoglycemia), which may be serious and life-threatening.
Do not share your pen(s) with other people, even if the needle has been changed. You may
give other people a serious infection or get a serious infection from them.
Bill: Now, I've been eating better. I limit certain foods like pasta, bread, white flour, sugars. I
do a lot of salads and sometimes fish, grilled chicken, that sort of thing. I'm also definitely
more mindful when I eat out, it was kind of like a breakup in a relationship, even though I
still love him, we just aren't that good together anymore. Cooking took on a new light with
diabetes. Also, my little dog Bella helps me exercise. My wife and I like to take her to the
dog park.
When Bella has worn out, I know my walks done for the day. You just kind of have to look at
it as well. Well, life is always full of things you have to do. She might as well deal with them
in a positive way. And if you can find some humor in it and laugh at yourself, that's the way
to do it. Now I look at food is part of my treatment, a smart way I can help control my blood
sugar. The SoloStar pen has become part of my daily life now. It uses a small thin needle,
and I don’t have to press hard to get my dose. I also like that I only need to hold the button
down for 5 seconds. Now, my numbers are where my doctor and I wanted them, my blood
sugar levels are in a range we set. And my last A1C test was in my target range. Changing up,
your lifestyle can be stressful but I found change doesn’t have to be a bad thing. Diabetes
doesn't have to be a struggle.
If you work at it, you may end up a stronger person for it, I guess, I've learned that even
though I love to make people laugh and help people well, I needed to help myself too. My
name is Bill and I help manage my type 2 diabetes with Toujeo. Now it's your turn, talk to
your doctor, to see if it's time to work toward your diabetes management goals with Toujeo.
Voiceover:
What is Toujeo U-300 (insulin glargine) injection 300 Units/mL?
Prescription Toujeo is a long-acting man-made insulin used to control high blood sugar in
adults and children who are 6 years of age and older with diabetes mellitus.
• Toujeo is not for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis
• It is not known if Toujeo is safe and effective in children under 6 years of age
Important Safety Information for Toujeo U-300 (insulin glargine) injection
Do not use Toujeo if you have low blood sugar or if you are allergic to insulin or any of the
ingredients in Toujeo.
Do not share your pen(s) with other people, even if the needle has been changed. You may
give other people a serious infection or get a serious infection from them.
Before starting Toujeo, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including if you
have liver or kidney problems, if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you
are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.
Change (rotate) your injection sites within the area you chose with each dose
to reduce
your risk of getting pitted or thickened skin (lipodystrophy) and skin with lumps (localized
cutaneous amyloidosis) at the injection sites. Do not use the same spot for each injection or
inject where the skin is pitted, thickened, lumpy, tender, bruised, scaly, hard, scarred, or
damaged.
Heart failure can occur if you are taking insulin together with pills called TZDs
(thiazolidinediones), even if you have never had heart failure or other heart problems. If you
have heart failure, it may get worse while you take TZDs with Toujeo. Your treatment with
TZDs and Toujeo may need to be changed or stopped by your doctor if you have new or
worsening heart failure. Tell your doctor if you have any new or worsening symptoms
including:
• Shortness of breath
• Sudden weight gain
• Swelling of your ankles or feet
Tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including OTC medicines, vitamins, and
supplements, and herbal supplements.
Toujeo should be taken at the same time once a day. Test your blood sugar levels daily while
using any insulin. Do not change your dose or type of insulin without talking to your doctor.
Verify you have the correct insulin before each injection. Do NOT use a syringe to remove
Toujeo from your pen. Your dose for Toujeo may be different from other insulins you have
taken. Any change of insulin should be made cautiously and only under medical supervision.
Do NOT dilute or mix Toujeo with any other insulin or solution. It will not work as intended
and you may lose blood sugar control, which could be serious. Use Toujeo only if the
solution is clear and colorless with no particles visible.
While using Toujeo, do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Toujeo
affects you. Don’t drink alcohol or use other medicines that contain alcohol.
The most common side effect of Toujeo is low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which may be
serious and life-threatening. Severe hypoglycemia may cause harm to your heart or brain.
Symptoms of serious low blood sugar may include shaking, sweating, fast heartbeat, and
blurred vision. The long-acting effect of Toujeo may delay recovery from low blood sugar
compared to shorter-acting insulins.
Toujeo may cause severe allergic reactions that can lead to death. Get medical help right
away if you have:
• A rash over your whole body
• Shortness of breath
• Swelling of your face, tongue, or throat
• Extreme drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion
• Trouble breathing
• Fast heartbeat
• Sweating
Toujeo may have additional side effects including swelling, weight gain, low potassium, and
injection site reactions which may include change in fat tissue, skin thickening, redness,
swelling, and itching.
Toujeo SoloStar and Toujeo Max SoloStar are single-patient-use prefilled insulin pens. It is
important to perform a safety test when using a new pen for the first time. Talk to your
doctor about proper injection technique and follow instructions in the Instruction Leaflet
that comes with your Toujeo SoloStar or Toujeo Max SoloStar pen.
©2022 sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC. All rights reserved.
MAT-US-2302826-v1.0-04/2023
Insulin, Glucose, and You Video Transcript
When you hear the word insulin, you may think of a drug taken by people who have diabetes.While this is true, what you may not know is that insulin is one of the many hormones created in the human body.Insulin is important to the body. It allows blood sugar (or glucose) to get into cells to provide them with energy.When you eat, your body breaks down food into glucose in your small intestine.This is your body’s source of energy for everything it does, from working and thinking to exercising and healing.Glucose travels through your bloodstream, looking for individual cells that need energy.For glucose to get into the cells, it requires insulin.Insulin is the key that unlocks cells for glucose to enter and deliver energy.When insulin arrives, it signals the cells to activate glucose transporters.These transporters pull glucose through cell walls.When glucose moves into the cell, it delivers energy.
Insulin deficiency
Insulin is normally produced in the pancreas by specialized cells called beta cells. When glucose enters your bloodstream, the pancreas matches it with the right amount of insulin to move glucose into your cells. In people with diabetes, this process doesn't work as it should. In type 1 diabetes, scientists believe the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys beta cells in the pancreas. A person with type 1 diabetes loses the ability to produce insulin. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas is not producing enough insulin to meet the body's needs. Over time, the amount of insulin typically becomes less and less.
Insulin resistance
In some type 2 diabetes patients, cells build up a resistance to insulin. Even though there may be insulin in the bloodstream, it is not enough to unlock cells to allow glucose to enter.As a result, it takes more insulin to find the right key to unlock the cell for glucose. This makes it more difficult for cells to get the energy they need.
The effects of diabetes
When glucose can’t get into cells—either because there isn’t enough insulin or because the body is resisting it—glucose begins to build up in the bloodstream.
As a result, all that energy is wasted. It does not get to cells where it is needed. Without glucose in your cells, they lack the energy they require to keep your body working.
How to Use the Toujeo® SoloStar® Pens Video Transcript
ANNOUNCER: These instructions do not replace the guidance of your doctor or the instructions for use that accompanies the Toujeo® SoloStar® (insulin glargine) injection 300 Units/mL or Toujeo® Max SoloStar® pens. People who have vision problems should not use the Toujeo SoloStar or Toujeo Max SoloStar pen without help from a person trained to use the respective pens.
MAX AMY: In this diabetes journey we’re on, have you ever wished you could go back in time and tell yourself the things that you know now, but you didn’t know then?
MAX AMY: Thanks to the wonders of modern technology, we can.
Prescription Toujeo is a long-acting man-made insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults and children who are 6 years of age and older with diabetes mellitus. • Toujeo is not for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis • It is not known if Toujeo is safe and effective in children under 6 years of age
Do not use Toujeo if you have low blood sugar or if you are allergic to insulin or any of the ingredients in Toujeo.
Do not share your pen(s) with other people, even if the needle has been changed.
MAX AMY: Hey look at that, our first SoloStar pen! I remember that.
MAX AMY: It was a really big deal when I came home with my first pen – it feels like it was only yesterday.
PAST AMY: Oh hey, is that one the same as this one?
MAX AMY: Well your pen is the SoloStar. This one is the Max SoloStar. They’re very similar but there’re some really important differences – but I’ll get to those in a second.
MAX AMY: Did your doctor show you how to use it?
PAST AMY: Yeah, she showed me, but now that I’m home I still have some questions.
MAX AMY: Let me help you get the hang of this.
MAX AMY: There are six steps you need to know: Check the pen, attach the needle, test for safety, select the dosage, inject the insulin, and then remove the needle.
PAST AMY [repeating as if memorizing]: OK. Check the pen, attach the needle, test for safety, select the dosage, inject the insulin, and remove the needle.
MAX AMY: That’s it! You’re ahead of the game already! I knew there was a reason why I liked you.
MAX AMY: So before we do anything, we’re going to make sure the pen is at room temperature, that we have the correct pen, and that it’s working properly.
MAX AMY: Did you take the pen out of the refrigerator about an hour ago? 'Cause cold insulin can be painful…
PAST AMY: Really? Who knew?
MAX AMY: You.
PAST AMY: Good point. This one’s been out of the fridge about an hour.
MAX AMY: Now look at your pen. I mean, really look at it.
MAX AMY: Is that your pen?
PAST AMY: Yeah.
MAX AMY: Great. Take off the pen cap and check the insulin. It’s clear, not cloudy?
PAST AMY: Clear.
MAX AMY: Perfect! If the insulin’s cloudy, don’t use it, just take it back to your pharmacy.
MAX AMY: Is it past the use-by date?
PAST AMY: Nope.
MAX AMY: Great! Now it’s time to attach the needle.
MAX AMY: Remember, you’re going to need a fresh needle every time you use the pen.
MAX AMY: Don’t reuse and never share needles.
PAST AMY: Even with you?
MAX AMY: Yes, even with me.
PAST AMY: What kind of needles can I use?
MAX AMY: These kind.
MAX AMY: Before you attach the needle, sterilize the tip of the pen with an alcohol wipe.
MAX AMY: Then with the needle you’re going to peel off the protective seal and screw the needle onto the pen, until it feels fixed.
MAX AMY: Then you’re going to remove the outer cap and put that somewhere safe. Then remove the inner needle cap and throw it in the trash.
PAST AMY: Keep the outer cap, toss the inner, got it.
MAX AMY: That’s step two done! With me so far?
PAST AMY: I’m with you.
MAX AMY: Yes, you are. So, before we do anything else, we need to make sure the pen’s working properly.
PAST AMY: What could go wrong?
MAX AMY: Well, sometimes the insulin won’t come out, so we usually check for that.
PAST AMY: OK.
MAX AMY: Testing the pen also resets the dosage knob which is also important.
PAST AMY: Great, so how do I do that?
MAX AMY: Turn the dosage dial to 3, then you’re going to hold it straight up and you’re going to press the injection button all the way in.
MAX AMY: If you see insulin coming out of the needle, then the pen is working and you’re good to go.
MAX AMY: However, if you don’t see insulin coming out, repeat that last step again.
MAX AMY: If you have a new pen, you may need to do this up to six times. Just to get that working. If it still doesn’t work, you need to replace the needle.
PAST AMY: Like in step two?
MAX AMY: Precisely. Oh and by the way, if you see bubbles in your insulin, don’t sweat it.
PAST AMY: Aren’t bubbles in injections bad?
MAX AMY: Nope, not here. You’ve been watching too much TV.
MAX AMY: Ready to inject some insulin?
PAST AMY: OK.
MAX AMY: First, we need to select the correct dosage. So we’re going to turn the dosage selector to your dose.
MAX AMY: Whatever you and your doctor discussed is what you turn the dial to.
PAST AMY: OK, I need 38 units, so I turn the dial to 38, correct?
MAX AMY: Correct.
MAX AMY: Now this is important: If you have the SoloStar pen, the increments on the dial are one click for one unit, but on the Max SoloStar pen, it’s one click for two units.
MAX AMY: So don’t dial your dose by counting the clicks, or you may dial the wrong dose.
MAX AMY: Either way, just turn the dial so your prescribed dose appears in this window. If there’s not enough insulin in the pen for your prescribed dose, you’ll only be able to dial to the amount that’s left in the pen, and then you’ll need to supplement with a new pen.
PAST AMY: How do I know whether I need the SoloStar or the Max SoloStar?
MAX AMY: As your diabetes changes, your dose may change too, so your doctor may recommend you use a Max SoloStar. Like me.
PAST AMY: That makes total sense.
MAX AMY: OK, we’re in the home stretch.
MAX AMY: Are you ready for your injection?
PAST AMY: Where can I inject?
MAX AMY: You can inject your dose here, here or here.
MAX AMY: Push the needle into your skin, but don’t touch the injection button yet.
MAX AMY: Put your thumb on the button, press all the way in and hold.
MAX AMY: Hold the button in. When you see “0” in the window, then count to five to make sure you get your full dose.
MAX AMY: After counting to five, release the button and remove the needle from your skin.
PAST AMY: OK, that was pretty easy.
PAST AMY: Well, I barely noticed it at all. How do they do that?
MAX AMY: Thin needles.
MAX AMY: We’re almost done. Now we just need to remove the needle and throw it away safely.
PAST AMY: This really is pretty straightforward.
MAX AMY: I know, right?
MAX AMY: To remove the needle, get the outer needle cap we set aside earlier and carefully place it back on the pen. You put that somewhere safe, right?
PAST AMY: Yep.
MAX AMY: OK.
MAX AMY: These things are sharp. Avoid puncturing the cap, 'cause it will go through.
MAX AMY: Grip and squeeze the widest part of the outer needle cap, then turn your pen several times with your other hand to remove the needle.
PAST AMY: But what if it doesn’t come off right away?
MAX AMY: Just keep trying, it’ll come off eventually.
MAX AMY: Once the needle’s been removed, then we dispose of it in a puncture resistant container.
PAST AMY: Can I just leave the needle on and use it again later?
MAX AMY: No, that’s not a great idea for several reasons: It can leak or get clogged if you leave it on, air could get into the insulin, and there’s the possibility of a bacterial infection.
PAST AMY: So, do I need to put the pen back in the refrigerator when I’m done?
MAX AMY: Nope, that’s the great thing about these pens – you’re good for up to eight weeks after your first use without refrigeration.
PAST AMY: Well that’s handy.
MAX AMY: It sure is.
MAX AMY: So, there you go. That’s all six steps of how to use the Toujeo SoloStar and Max SoloStar insulin pens.
MAX AMY: Just to recap, we learned how to check the pen, attach the needle, test for safety, select your dosage, inject the insulin, and then remove the needle.
PAST AMY: Hey, that was really straightforward. I know the doctor explained it to me, but it really helped to have you explain it again.
MAX AMY: No sweat.
PAST AMY: You know, now that I know, it’s pretty simple. If I wasn’t so nervous, I guess I could have taught myself to do it.
MAX AMY: Well, you know, you kinda did.
ANNOUNCER: An unopened Toujeo SoloStar or Toujeo Max SoloStar pen should be stored in the refrigerator with the pen cap on, at a temperature between 36 degrees Fahrenheit and 46 degrees Fahrenheit (2 degrees Celsius and 8 degrees Celsius) in the box it came in.
Do not freeze new pens.
Refrigerate pens until expiration date.
Discard pens after the expiration date.
An opened Toujeo SoloStar or Toujeo Max SoloStar pen should be stored at room temperature below 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius).
Do not refrigerate an opened pen.
Keep out of direct heat and light.
Do not store your pen with the needle attached.
Store your pen with the pen cap on.
Keep pens and needles out of the reach of children.
Discard 56 days after first use, even if the pen still contains insulin.
What is Toujeo U-300 (insulin glargine) injection 300 Units/mL?
Prescription Toujeo is a long-acting man-made insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults and children who are 6 years of age and older with diabetes mellitus.
- Toujeo is not for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis
- It is not known if Toujeo is safe and effective in children under 6 years of age
Important Safety Information for Toujeo U-300 (insulin glargine) injection
Do not use Toujeo if you have low blood sugar or if you are allergic to insulin or any of the ingredients in Toujeo.
Do not share your pen(s) with other people, even if the needle has been changed. You may give other people a serious infection or get a serious infection from them.
Before starting Toujeo, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including if you have liver or kidney problems, if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.
Change (rotate) your injection sites within the area you chose with each dose to reduce your risk of getting pitted or thickened skin (lipodystrophy) and skin with lumps (localized cutaneous amyloidosis) at the injection sites. Do not use the same spot for each injection or inject where the skin is pitted, thickened, lumpy, tender, bruised, scaly, hard, scarred, or damaged.
Heart failure can occur if you are taking insulin together with pills called TZDs (thiazolidinediones), even if you have never had heart failure or other heart problems. If you have heart failure, it may get worse while you take TZDs with Toujeo. Your treatment with TZDs and Toujeo may need to be changed or stopped by your doctor if you have new or worsening heart failure. Tell your doctor if you have any new or worsening symptoms including:
- Shortness of breath
- Sudden weight gain
- Swelling of your ankles or feet
Tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including OTC medicines, vitamins, and supplements, and herbal supplements.
Toujeo should be taken at the same time once a day. Test your blood sugar levels daily while using any insulin. Do not change your dose or type of insulin without talking to your doctor. Verify you have the correct insulin before each injection. Do NOT use a syringe to remove Toujeo from your pen. Your dose for Toujeo may be different from other insulins you have taken. Any change of insulin should be made cautiously and only under medical supervision.
Do NOT dilute or mix Toujeo with any other insulin or solution. It will not work as intended and you may lose blood sugar control, which could be serious. Use Toujeo only if the solution is clear and colorless with no particles visible.
While using Toujeo, do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Toujeo affects you. Don’t drink alcohol or use other medicines that contain alcohol.
The most common side effect of Toujeo is low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which may be serious and life-threatening. Severe hypoglycemia may cause harm to your heart or brain. Symptoms of serious low blood sugar may include shaking, sweating, fast heartbeat, and blurred vision. The long-acting effect of Toujeo may delay recovery from low blood sugar compared to shorter-acting insulins.
Toujeo may cause severe allergic reactions that can lead to death. Get medical help right away if you have:
- A rash over your whole body
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling of your face, tongue, or throat
- Extreme drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion
- Trouble breathing
- Fast heartbeat
- Sweating
Toujeo may have additional side effects including swelling, weight gain, low potassium, and injection site reactions which may include change in fat tissue, skin thickening, redness, swelling, and itching.
Toujeo SoloStar and Toujeo Max SoloStar are single-patient-use prefilled insulin pens. It is important to perform a safety test when using a new pen for the first time. Talk to your doctor about proper injection technique and follow instructions in the Instruction Leaflet that comes with your Toujeo SoloStar or Toujeo Max SoloStar pen.
©2022 sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC.
All rights reserved
MAT-US-2006936-v2.0-11/2022
Frequently asked questions by people with diabetes like you
Need to know more about insulin? Here are some common questions that you may want to discuss further with your doctor when asking about Toujeo and Toujeo Max.
Longer-acting insulin is designed to work like your body’s natural insulin production between meals and overnight to help control blood sugar.
Toujeo may be an important step toward blood sugar control. Its release is slow and continuous with no peaks or wear-offs between doses. Toujeo can help blood sugar levels stay within the American Diabetes Association (ADA) target zone (80-130 mg/dL) around the clock. Toujeo should be taken once daily at the same time each day.
Yes, but your doctor will determine which medications are right for you. Talk with your doctor about the medications and supplements you take, especially those called thiazolidinediones or TZDs because they can change how insulin works.
Ask your doctor about any adjustments that need to be made to any other medications you might be taking while taking once-daily Toujeo.
For all insulins, including Toujeo, the most common side effect is low blood sugar levels, called hypoglycemia. Ask your doctor about the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia, how to monitor your blood sugar, and what to do if you have a hypoglycemic event.
Yes, insulin glargine U-300 is an unbranded biologic for Toujeo, ensuring you have the same product experience as Toujeo. Learn more here.
From the makers of Toujeo
Insulin glargine U-300—the unbranded biologic that is identical to Toujeo
Winthrop US is a Sanofi company dedicated to delivering unbranded versions of Sanofi products, including this unbranded biologic for Toujeo.
Insulin glargine U-300 is an unbranded biologic for Toujeo, ensuring you have the same product experience as Toujeo.
- Insulin glargine U-300 uses the same manufacturing process as Toujeo
- It is identical to Toujeo in molecular weight distribution, quality control parameters, and inactive ingredients
Learn more about WINTHROP
Winthrop, a Sanofi Company, is dedicated to ensuring patients get the same quality product they would from Sanofi’s brand name products. Winthrop products are identical to Sanofi products in molecular weight distribution, quality control parameters, inactive ingredients, and other key factors. Quality, affordability, and service are the foundation of our relationship with patients and those that serve them.
To find out more, please contact WinthropUS@sanofi.com.
Insulin glargine U-300 SoloStar injection and Insulin glargine U-300 Max SoloStar injection launched into the market on January 1, 2024. The availability in local markets will be dependent on payer coverage, pharmacy purchasing patterns, and wholesaler stocking decisions. This will take time and we do not expect broad coverage at launch. All major national and regional wholesalers have agreed to stock this new option.
Join TeamingUp to get the support you need.
There’s a lot to think about when you live with diabetes. What you eat, how you exercise, and creating a routine are all essential to managing your diabetes well.
To do that you need a plan and you need support.
At TeamingUp, you’ll find tools, videos, and tips to get you and keep you on track. Learn how to plan and cook delicious meals, create exercise routines, and more. Hear from peers about how they’re living full lives with diabetes.
You’ve seen others’ stories. Now get help starting the conversation about Toujeo.
Whether you’re new to insulin or switching from another pen, you’ve got a guide to help you talk to your doctor about Toujeo. Download the guide most appropriate for you and don’t be afraid to speak up!
Pay no more than $35* per month for Toujeo Max
Use the Insurance Lookup tool to see if you’re covered.
Proven A1C reduction
Toujeo Max could help you control your A1C.
What are Toujeo and Insulin Glargine U-300 injection?
Prescription Toujeo and Insulin Glargine U-300 are long-acting man-made insulins used to control high blood sugar in adults and children who are 6 years of age and older with diabetes mellitus.
- Toujeo and Insulin Glargine U-300 are not for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis
- It is not known if Toujeo and Insulin Glargine U-300 are safe and effective in children under 6 years of age
What is Toujeo U-300 (insulin glargine) injection 300 Units/mL?
Prescription Toujeo is a long-acting man-made insulin used to control high blood sugar in adults and children who are 6 years of age and older with diabetes mellitus.
- Toujeo is not for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis
- It is not known if Toujeo is safe and effective in children under 6 years of age
Important Safety Information
Important Safety Information
The Important Safety Information for Insulin Glargine U-300 is the same as for Toujeo.
Do not use Toujeo if you have low blood sugar or if you are allergic to insulin or any of the ingredients in Toujeo.
Do not share your pen(s) with other people, even if the needle has been changed. You may give other people a serious infection or get a serious infection from them.
Before starting Toujeo, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including if you have liver or kidney problems, if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.
Change (rotate) your injection sites within the area you chose with each dose to reduce your risk of getting pitted or thickened skin (lipodystrophy) and skin with lumps (localized cutaneous amyloidosis) at the injection sites. Do not use the same spot for each injection or inject where the skin is pitted, thickened, lumpy, tender, bruised, scaly, hard, scarred, or damaged.
Heart failure can occur if you are taking insulin together with pills called TZDs (thiazolidinediones), even if you have never had heart failure or other heart problems. If you have heart failure, it may get worse while you take TZDs with Toujeo. Your treatment with TZDs and Toujeo may need to be changed or stopped by your doctor if you have new or worsening heart failure. Tell your doctor if you have any new or worsening symptoms including:
- Shortness of breath
- Sudden weight gain
- Swelling of your ankles or feet
Tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including OTC medicines, vitamins, and supplements, and herbal supplements.
Toujeo should be taken at the same time once a day. Test your blood sugar levels daily while using any insulin. Do not change your dose or type of insulin without talking to your doctor. Verify you have the correct insulin before each injection. Do NOT use a syringe to remove Toujeo from your pen. Your dose for Toujeo may be different from other insulins you have taken. Any change of insulin should be made cautiously and only under medical supervision.
Do NOT dilute or mix Toujeo with any other insulin or solution. It will not work as intended and you may lose blood sugar control, which could be serious. Use Toujeo only if the solution is clear and colorless with no particles visible.
While using Toujeo, do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Toujeo affects you. Don’t drink alcohol or use other medicines that contain alcohol.
The most common side effect of Toujeo is low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which may be serious and life-threatening. Severe hypoglycemia may cause harm to your heart or brain. Symptoms of serious low blood sugar may include shaking, sweating, fast heartbeat, and blurred vision. The long-acting effect of Toujeo may delay recovery from low blood sugar compared to shorter-acting insulins.
Toujeo may cause severe allergic reactions that can lead to death. Get medical help right away if you have:
- A rash over your whole body
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling of your face, tongue, or throat
- Extreme drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion
- Trouble breathing
- Fast heartbeat
- Sweating
Toujeo may have additional side effects including swelling, weight gain, low potassium, and injection site reactions which may include change in fat tissue, skin thickening, redness, swelling, and itching.
Toujeo and Insulin Glargine U-300 SoloStar and Toujeo and Insulin Glargine U-300 Max SoloStar are single-patient-use prefilled insulin pens. It is important to perform a safety test when using a new pen for the first time. Talk to your doctor about proper injection technique and follow instructions in the Instruction Leaflet that comes with your Toujeo SoloStar or Toujeo Max SoloStar pen.
If you are a patient experiencing problems with a Sanofi US product, please contact Sanofi US at 1-800-633-1610.
The health information contained herein is provided for general educational purposes only. Your healthcare professional is the single best source of information regarding your health. Please consult your healthcare professional if you have any questions about your health or treatment.
*Eligibility Restrictions & Offer Terms:
Insulins Valyou Savings Program: This savings program is not insurance. For a complete list of participating brands, products, and National Drug Codes (NDCs) Click Here. This offer is not valid for prescriptions covered by or submitted for reimbursement, in whole or in part, under Medicare, Medicaid, VA, DOD, TRICARE, similar federal or state programs, including any state pharmaceutical programs, or commercial/private insurance. Only patients without prescription medication insurance can apply for this offer. Void where prohibited by law. For the duration of the program, eligible cash paying patients will pay $35 per 30 Day Supply. To pay $35 per 30 Day Supply, you must fill all your Sanofi Insulin prescriptions at the same time, together each month. The Insulins Valyou Savings Program applies to the cost of medication. There are other relevant costs associated with overall treatment. Sanofi reserves the right to rescind, revoke, terminate, or amend this offer, eligibility, and terms of use at any time without notice. Upon registration, patients will receive all program details. For questions regarding your eligibility or benefits, or if you wish to discontinue your participation, call the Insulins Valyou Savings Program at (833) 813-0190 (833) 813-0190 (8:00 am-8:00 pm EST, Monday-Friday).
Sanofi Insulins Co-pay Savings Program: This savings program is not insurance. For a complete list of participating brands, products, and National Drug Codes (NDCs) Click Here. This offer is not valid for prescriptions covered by or submitted for reimbursement, in whole or in part, under Medicare, Medicaid, VA, DOD, TRICARE, similar federal or state programs, including any state pharmaceutical programs. If you have an Affordable Care (Health Care Exchange) plan, you may still be qualified to receive and use this savings card. Please note: the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program is not a federal or state government health care program for purposes of the savings program. Void where prohibited by law. For the duration of the program, eligible commercially insured patients pay no more than $35 per 30-day supply, up to 10 packs per fill; Offer valid for one fill every 30 days. Savings may vary depending on patients’ out-of-pocket costs. The Sanofi Insulins Co-pay Savings Program applies to the cost of medication. There are other relevant costs associated with overall treatment. Sanofi reserves the right to rescind, revoke, terminate, or amend this offer, eligibility, and terms of use at any time without notice. Upon registration, patients will receive all program details. For questions regarding your eligibility or benefits, or if you wish to discontinue your participation, call the Sanofi Insulins Co-pay Savings Program at (866) 255-8661 (866) 255-8661 (8:00 am-8:00 pm EST, Monday-Friday).
Important Safety Information
The Important Safety Information for Insulin Glargine U-300 is the same as for Toujeo.
Do not use Toujeo if you have low blood sugar or if you are allergic to insulin or any of the ingredients in Toujeo.
Do not share your pen(s) with other people, even if the needle has been changed. You may give other people a serious infection or get a serious infection from them.
Before starting Toujeo, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including if you have liver or kidney problems, if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.
Change (rotate) your injection sites within the area you chose with each dose to reduce your risk of getting pitted or thickened skin (lipodystrophy) and skin with lumps (localized cutaneous amyloidosis) at the injection sites. Do not use the same spot for each injection or inject where the skin is pitted, thickened, lumpy, tender, bruised, scaly, hard, scarred, or damaged.
Heart failure can occur if you are taking insulin together with pills called TZDs (thiazolidinediones), even if you have never had heart failure or other heart problems. If you have heart failure, it may get worse while you take TZDs with Toujeo. Your treatment with TZDs and Toujeo may need to be changed or stopped by your doctor if you have new or worsening heart failure. Tell your doctor if you have any new or worsening symptoms including:
- Shortness of breath
- Sudden weight gain
- Swelling of your ankles or feet
Tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including OTC medicines, vitamins, and supplements, and herbal supplements.
Toujeo should be taken at the same time once a day. Test your blood sugar levels daily while using any insulin. Do not change your dose or type of insulin without talking to your doctor. Verify you have the correct insulin before each injection. Do NOT use a syringe to remove Toujeo from your pen. Your dose for Toujeo may be different from other insulins you have taken. Any change of insulin should be made cautiously and only under medical supervision.
Do NOT dilute or mix Toujeo with any other insulin or solution. It will not work as intended and you may lose blood sugar control, which could be serious. Use Toujeo only if the solution is clear and colorless with no particles visible.
While using Toujeo, do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Toujeo affects you. Don’t drink alcohol or use other medicines that contain alcohol.
The most common side effect of Toujeo is low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which may be serious and life-threatening. Severe hypoglycemia may cause harm to your heart or brain. Symptoms of serious low blood sugar may include shaking, sweating, fast heartbeat, and blurred vision. The long-acting effect of Toujeo may delay recovery from low blood sugar compared to shorter-acting insulins.
Toujeo may cause severe allergic reactions that can lead to death. Get medical help right away if you have:
- A rash over your whole body
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling of your face, tongue, or throat
- Extreme drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion
- Trouble breathing
- Fast heartbeat
- Sweating
Toujeo may have additional side effects including swelling, weight gain, low potassium, and injection site reactions which may include change in fat tissue, skin thickening, redness, swelling, and itching.
Toujeo and Insulin Glargine U-300 SoloStar and Toujeo and Insulin Glargine U-300 Max SoloStar are single-patient-use prefilled insulin pens. It is important to perform a safety test when using a new pen for the first time. Talk to your doctor about proper injection technique and follow instructions in the Instruction Leaflet that comes with your Toujeo SoloStar or Toujeo Max SoloStar pen.
If you are a patient experiencing problems with a Sanofi US product, please contact Sanofi US at 1-800-633-1610.
The health information contained herein is provided for general educational purposes only. Your healthcare professional is the single best source of information regarding your health. Please consult your healthcare professional if you have any questions about your health or treatment.
*Eligibility Restrictions & Offer Terms:
Insulins Valyou Savings Program: This savings program is not insurance. For a complete list of participating brands, products, and National Drug Codes (NDCs) Click Here. This offer is not valid for prescriptions covered by or submitted for reimbursement, in whole or in part, under Medicare, Medicaid, VA, DOD, TRICARE, similar federal or state programs, including any state pharmaceutical programs, or commercial/private insurance. Only patients without prescription medication insurance can apply for this offer. Void where prohibited by law. For the duration of the program, eligible cash paying patients will pay $35 per 30 Day Supply. To pay $35 per 30 Day Supply, you must fill all your Sanofi Insulin prescriptions at the same time, together each month. The Insulins Valyou Savings Program applies to the cost of medication. There are other relevant costs associated with overall treatment. Sanofi reserves the right to rescind, revoke, terminate, or amend this offer, eligibility, and terms of use at any time without notice. Upon registration, patients will receive all program details. For questions regarding your eligibility or benefits, or if you wish to discontinue your participation, call the Insulins Valyou Savings Program at (833) 813-0190 (833) 813-0190 (8:00 am-8:00 pm EST, Monday-Friday).
Sanofi Insulins Co-pay Savings Program: This savings program is not insurance. For a complete list of participating brands, products, and National Drug Codes (NDCs) Click Here. This offer is not valid for prescriptions covered by or submitted for reimbursement, in whole or in part, under Medicare, Medicaid, VA, DOD, TRICARE, similar federal or state programs, including any state pharmaceutical programs. If you have an Affordable Care (Health Care Exchange) plan, you may still be qualified to receive and use this savings card. Please note: the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program is not a federal or state government health care program for purposes of the savings program. Void where prohibited by law. For the duration of the program, eligible commercially insured patients pay no more than $35 per 30-day supply, up to 10 packs per fill; Offer valid for one fill every 30 days. Savings may vary depending on patients’ out-of-pocket costs. The Sanofi Insulins Co-pay Savings Program applies to the cost of medication. There are other relevant costs associated with overall treatment. Sanofi reserves the right to rescind, revoke, terminate, or amend this offer, eligibility, and terms of use at any time without notice. Upon registration, patients will receive all program details. For questions regarding your eligibility or benefits, or if you wish to discontinue your participation, call the Sanofi Insulins Co-pay Savings Program at (866) 255-8661 (866) 255-8661 (8:00 am-8:00 pm EST, Monday-Friday).