Awiqli vs. Lantus for Type 2 Diabetes: 5 Similarities and Differences to Consider

Awiqli (insulin icodec-abae) and Lantus (insulin glargine) are both long-acting insulins. They help manage blood glucose (sugar) levels in people living with Type 2 diabetes. But there are some differences between these medications.

Let’s look at five similarities and differences between Awiqli versus Lantus. This can help you understand how these insulins compare and which one may be a better fit for your needs. 

1. Awiqli is injected once-weekly, while Lantus is injected once daily

The biggest difference between Awiqli and Lantus is how often you inject them.

Awiqli is the first once-weekly basal (long-acting) insulin approved by the FDA. It’s injected once every 7 days, on the same day each week. Lantus, on the other hand, is injected once a day at about the same time each day.

Since Awiqli requires fewer injections — 52 per year versus 365 daily injections — some people may find it more convenient than Lantus. But others may find it easier to stick with a once-daily schedule.

2. Lantus and Awiqli have different approved uses

Lantus and Awiqli are both FDA-approved to treat Type 2 diabetes in adults. But Lantus is also approved to treat Type 1 diabetes in adults and both types of diabetes in children ages 6 and older.

So if you need a long-acting insulin for a child or teen, or if you are living with Type 1 diabetes, Lantus may be an option. But Awiqli is approved only for Type 2 diabetes in adults.

3. Awiqli lasts longer in the body than Lantus

Awiqli and Lantus are designed to provide around-the-clock basal insulin coverage. But Awiqli stays in the body much longer than Lantus.

Awiqli has an ultralong duration of action that allows 1 injection to last an entire week. Because of this, it can take up to 4 weeks to reach a stable level in the body after starting treatment or changing your dose. So it may take a little longer to find the right dosage for you or make changes when needed.

Lantus also provides long-lasting blood glucose control. But each dose lasts about 24 hours (1 day). It reaches steady levels much faster than Awiqli, in about 2 to 4 days. This allows healthcare professionals to adjust your dose more quickly when needed.

Awiqli’s longer-lasting effects also mean that side effects, such as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), may last longer than with Lantus. This is more likely if you inject too much Awiqli or use it more often than once a week. So it’s important to pay close attention to your prescriber’s instructions to ensure you’re using Awiqli safely.

4. Awiqli and Lantus are considered similarly effective

Studies show that Awiqli and Lantus are similarly effective for treating Type 2 diabetes. They both work well to manage blood sugar levels when used as directed. They also have similar side effects, such as low blood sugar and injection site reactions. But the reduced number of injections with Awiqli may make it easier for some people to use, which improves overall treatment goals.

The choice between Awiqli and Lantus for Type 2 diabetes often comes down to whether you prefer daily or weekly injections and how well your body responds to the medication. 

5. It’s possible to switch from Lantus to Awiqli

If you’re using Lantus and want to try Awiqli, talk to your prescriber. If they approve the switch, you’ll typically start Awiqli the day after your last dose of daily basal insulin. Then you’ll inject Awiqli on that day every week.

Your weekly Awiqli dose will be higher than your daily Lantus dose, and you may inject more on your first dose than the following doses. This helps Awiqli start working faster. Be sure to follow your prescriber’s dosage instructions to avoid side effects.

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Stacia Woodcock, PharmD

Stacia Woodcock, PharmD, is a pharmacy editor for GoodRx. She earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Kentucky and is licensed in New York and Massachusetts.

Reviewed by:

Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD

Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD, is the director of pharmacy content for GoodRx. She has over a decade of experience as a pharmacist and has worked in clinical, academic, and administrative roles.

Our editorial standards

Meet our experts