Toujeo is a long-acting insulin that contains concentrated insulin glargine which lasts in the body for over 24 hours. Tresiba is an ultra-long acting insulin that contains insulin degludec which lasts in the body for over 42 hours.

Long-acting insulins are designed to mimic the body’s natural release of insulin, and both Toujeo and Tresiba were developed to provide more stable insulins that last longer in the body with less variability in blood levels over time. This translates to a lower risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels), especially at night. Research has shown that both Toujeo and Tresiba are effective at controlling blood sugar levels in people with diabetes with more research needed to determine whether there is less risk of night-time hypoglycemia with Tresiba compared with Toujeo.

Toujeo is sold as a packet of 3 cartridges at a cost of approximately $397 for 4.5 milliliters ($88.22/mL). Tresiba is sold in two strengths. The 100 unit/ml strength is available as a packet of 5 cartridges at a cost of approximately $490 for 15 milliliters ($32.67/mL). The 200 unit/ml strength is available as a packet of 3 cartridges at a cost of approximately $586 for 9 milliliters ($65.11/mL). If you take into consideration the concentration, Toujeo works out slightly cheaper than Tresiba (real cost value $29.41/ml with Toujeo vs $32.55/ml with Tresiba 200 units/ml). Prices may vary between pharmacies and with different insurance co-pays.

Once in use, Tresiba lasts for up to 8 weeks at room temperature (below 86°F [30°C]), if kept away from direct sunlight and heat, whereas Toujeo lasts for just 28 days at room temperature. The active ingredient of Tresiba, insulin degludec, is also available in combination with short-acting insulin aspart, as Ryzodeg 70/30 FlexTouch Pen.

Comparison Chart of Toujeo and Tresiba