However, before you switch from Lantus to a different kind of insulin, it is important to know that other studies have not confirmed this risk and that the European studies that suggested the link were observational studies that simply gathered data from the population. Observational studies are not the best types of studies for drawing such dramatic conclusions. The best studies compare a given drug directly to another drug or a placebo and take place in controlled settings to minimize other potential causes for the results that are observed. These observational studies were not performed this way.

Although there is more study to be done on the subject, it is important not to panic about the news. If you are taking Lantus, it is important not to stop the drugs. If you are taking lantus and are truly concerned about the potential risk, talk to your doctor about switching to a different type of insulin like Humalog or Novalog.

Author: Christi Larson, Pharm. D.

Dr. Larson is a Pharmacist, author of Empowered Medicine; A Guide for Consumers and creator of Empowered Medicine. You can read more about her by visiting www.EmpoweredMedicine.com and clicking on the 'About Us' tab.  EmpoweredMedicine.com is committed to providing evidence-based medical information from a pharmacist's point of view.