Long-acting basal insulin

Insulin glargine

Also known as: Lantus, Toujeo

Best time

Any time — same time daily

A steady 24-hour insulin. The hour matters less than taking it at the same time each day.

Strong evidence

Consistent clinical trials or official prescribing guidance support this timing.

Why this time works

Glargine releases slowly with no strong peak, providing background insulin all day. Morning and bedtime injections control glucose similarly; some people get fewer night-time lows with morning injections.

Body rhythm involved

Basal needs rise in the early morning (dawn phenomenon).

Other hormones & diabetes medicines

Levothyroxine

Synthroid, Euthyrox

On waking, empty stomach — or bedtime

Hormones & diabetesStrong evidence

Prednisolone / prednisone

Deltasone, Pred Forte (oral forms)

Morning

Hormones & diabetesStrong evidence

Hydrocortisone (replacement)

Cortef, Plenadren

Largest dose on waking, smaller early afternoon

Hormones & diabetesStrong evidence