Key takeaways
Tresiba (insulin degludec) and Lantus (insulin glargine) are both long-acting insulins used to manage blood sugar levels in people with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Tresiba is only available as a pen-form medication and has unbranded less expensive version is available, while Lantus is available as a vial and prefilled pen forms with biosimilars that are less expensive than brands. Tresiba can last up to 56 days at room temperature once opened, whereas Lantus lasts up to 28 days. Tresiba is approved for use in children as young as 1 year old, while Lantus is also approved for children but does not specify an age limit. Tresiba tends to be more expensive than Lantus. Both medications can cause low blood sugar and weight gain, but Tresiba has a longer duration of action compared to Lantus and less risk of low blood sugar.
