Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Glucovance (glyburide/metformin) and Lantus (insulin glargine) are both used to manage diabetes, but they have several differences between them. Glucovance is a combination of two medications, glyburide and metformin, taken to help manage blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. Glyburide stimulates the pancreas to release insulin, while metformin reduces sugar production in the liver and improves insulin sensitivity. On the other hand, Lantus is a long-acting insulin injected under the skin, used for type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It helps your body absorb and store sugar from the bloodstream and stops the liver from making glucose. Glucovance must be taken with meals to avoid low blood sugar and stomach upset, while Lantus can cause weight gain and low blood sugar.
Glyburide/metformin
Lantus (insulin glargine)
Glyburide/metformin
Lantus (insulin glargine)
Summary of Glucovance vs. Lantus
Summary for Sulfonylurea / Biguanide
Prescription only
Glyburide/metformin is used to manage blood sugar levels in adults with Type 2 diabetes. It works best when taken with a healthy diet and regular exercise. This medication combines a sulfonylurea (glyburide) and a biguanide (metformin). You take it by mouth, typically once or twice daily with meals. Since glyburide/metformin can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), it's important to carry fast-acting sugars like gummy candy or fruit juice to quickly raise your blood sugar if needed. Other common side effects include diarrhea, headache, and nausea. Brand name Glucovance has been discontinued.
Summary for Insulin
Prescription only
Lantus (insulin glargine) is a type of long-acting insulin. It's used to help manage blood sugar levels in people with Type 1 diabetes or Type 2 diabetes. Lantus (insulin glargine) is injected under the skin once daily. Your dose will depend on a few things, such as the type of diabetes you have and your blood sugar levels. This medication comes in a vial (Lantus) as well as in a prefilled insulin pen (Lantus Solostar). Some side effects include upper respiratory tract infections. It can also cause redness and swelling at the injection site.