Key takeaways
Tresiba (insulin degludec) and Basaglar (insulin glargine) are both long-acting insulins used to control high blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Tresiba is only available as a brand name and can be taken at any time of the day, while Basaglar, also only available as a brand, should be taken at the same time each day. Tresiba can be used by children as young as 1 year old for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, whereas Basaglar is approved for type 1 diabetes in children aged 6 years and up and type 2 diabetes in adults. Tresiba lasts longer at room temperature (56 days) compared to Basaglar (28 days). Both medications can cause low blood sugar and weight gain, but Basaglar has additional side effects like high blood pressure and back pain. Lastly, Tresiba uses one of the smallest needles possible, which might be more comfortable for some users.
