If you use a Sanofi insulin pen, you have probably noticed the box doesn't come with needles. Finding the right pen needles for Sanofi insulin pens is simpler than it looks: most of Sanofi's US pens share the same SoloStar design, so one type of pen needle generally works across the whole family. This guide covers which pens are included, which needles fit, and how to pick a size.
Which Sanofi Insulin Pens Are in the SoloStar Family?
SoloStar is the name Sanofi uses for its prefilled, disposable insulin pens. Common SoloStar pens in the US include:
- Lantus SoloStar (insulin glargine, long-acting)
- Toujeo SoloStar and Toujeo Max SoloStar (concentrated insulin glargine 300 units/mL)
- Admelog SoloStar (insulin lispro, mealtime)
- Apidra SoloStar (insulin glulisine, mealtime)
- Merilog SoloStar (insulin aspart biosimilar, mealtime)
- Soliqua (insulin glargine and lixisenatide combination pen)
Each of these pens is sold without pen needles, so you need a separate supply. Always use a new needle for every injection.
Do Standard Pen Needles Fit Sanofi SoloStar Pens?
Yes. SoloStar pens use the standard screw-on needle connection shared by most insulin pens sold in the US. Widely used brands such as NovoFine, NovoFine Plus, BD Nano, and BD Ultra-Fine screw onto SoloStar pens the same way they attach to Novo Nordisk FlexPen or Lilly KwikPen devices. Brand doesn't need to match: a Novo Nordisk needle on a Sanofi pen is a normal, common pairing.
To attach one, remove the paper tab, screw the needle on straight until snug, take off the outer cap (keep it for removal) and the inner cap, then do your safety test or prime as described in your pen's instructions. Our guide on whether universal pen needles fit all insulin pens goes deeper on compatibility.
Best Needle Size for Sanofi Insulin Pens
Current injection guidance favors short needles for most adults. A 4mm needle reaches the fat layer under the skin in most people when injected straight in at 90 degrees, and it lowers the chance of accidentally injecting into muscle. Thinner needles (a higher gauge number, such as 32G) are usually more comfortable.
- 4mm, 32G: a popular everyday choice for adults and teens. NovoFine Plus 32G 4mm (100-count) is a common pick.
- 5mm, 31G: a good option if you prefer slightly more length. See BD Ultra-Fine 31G 5mm (100-count).
- 6mm or 8mm: some people still use these out of habit or on a provider's advice; a pinched skin fold may be recommended with longer needles.
Toujeo users often ask whether a larger dose needs a longer needle. Needle length is about reaching the right tissue, not dose size. Holding the needle in place for the time stated in your pen's instructions matters more for getting the full dose. Your healthcare provider can confirm the right length for your body and technique.
How Many Pen Needles Do You Need?
Count one needle per injection. Someone taking Lantus or Toujeo once a day uses about 30 needles a month, so a 100-count box lasts roughly three months. If you also take a mealtime insulin like Admelog, Apidra, or Merilog three times a day, you may use 120 or more needles a month across both pens. One box of the same needle can serve all your SoloStar pens, which keeps ordering simple. For heavier use, the NovoFine Plus 3-box value pack (300 needles) lowers the cost per needle.
Pen-Specific Guides
Want details for one pen? See our guides for Lantus SoloStar, Toujeo SoloStar, Admelog SoloStar, Apidra SoloStar, Merilog SoloStar, and Soliqua.
Quick Checklist Before You Buy
- Confirm your pen is a SoloStar pen (the name is printed on the label).
- Choose a length (4mm or 5mm suits most adults) and a fine gauge (31G or 32G).
- Count your daily injections across all pens and multiply by 30.
- Check the expiration date on the box and store needles in a cool, dry place.
- Have a sharps container ready for used needles.
FAQ
Does Sanofi make its own pen needles for SoloStar pens?
You don't need a Sanofi-branded needle. Standard screw-on pen needles from major brands fit SoloStar pens.
Can I use the same needle box for Lantus and a mealtime insulin?
Yes, the same needles fit both pens. Just use a fresh needle for each injection and never share pens or needles.
Do I need a prescription for pen needles?
Rules vary by state and insurance plan. See our guide on whether you need a prescription for pen needles.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions for your insulin, dose, and injection technique. Ready to stock up? Browse all pen needles and use code WELCOME10 for 10% off your order.
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