Description
LEVEMIR (Insulin detemir) is an insulin product prescribed for people with diabetes mellitus. Blood glucose that is too high or too low can be dangerous, and LEVEMIR helps regulate blood glucose and keep it within normal levels.
LEVEMIR insulin is a long-acting insulin analog. It is similar to normal human insulin but has been modified to last much longer. LEVERMIR lasts between 18-24 hours for most people.
Directions
Inject LEVEMIR insulin under the skin once or twice daily as directed by the doctor. The doctor will determine the correct dosage.
LEVEMIR is available as vials or pens. When using vials, the insulin is drawn into a syringe and then injected with a needle. Pens come pre-filled and can be administered after attaching a pen needle.
Store LEVEMIR in the refrigerator before opening. Once opened and used for the first time, keep it at room temperature and discard any remaining portion after 28 days.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in LEVEMIR is insulin detemir.
Interactions
Some drugs can mask the symptoms of low blood sugar; these drugs include:
- Beta-blockers
- Clonidine
- Guanethidine
- Reserpine
Some drugs can raise or lower blood sugar in people with diabetes. By changing the blood sugar, a different dose of insulin may be required. Monitor blood sugar more frequently if you start, stop, or change any of the following medications:
- Alcohol
- Atypical Antipsychotics
- Corticosteroids
- Disopyramide
- Diuretics
- Estrogens/Progesterones
- Fibrates
- Fluoxetine
- Isoniazid
- Lithium
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Niacin
- Oral antidiabetic agents
- Pentoxifylline
- Phenothiazine derivatives
- Pramlintide
- Propoxyphene
- Protease inhibitors
- Salicylates
- Somatostatin Analogues
- Somatropin
- Sulfonamide Antibiotics
- Sympathomimetic agents
- Thyroid replacement medication
Cautions
Tell your doctor if you have made any lifestyle changes, like changes to diet and exercise. You may need to monitor blood sugar more frequently.
Monitor for signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia while taking any insulin product.
Read the vial or pen carefully before injecting LEVEMIR. Medication errors are common with insulin, and this helps to decrease the risk.
Side Effects
Some of the common adverse reactions with LEVEMIR include:
- Allergic reactions
- Edema
- Hypoglycemia
- Injection site reactions
- Lipodystrophy
- Pruritis
- Rash
- Weight gain
References
- Levemir [package insert] Plainsboro, NJ: Novo Nordisk; 2020.
About Dr. Conor Sheehy (Page Author)
Dr. Sheehy (BSc Molecular Biology, PharmD) works a clinical pharmacist specializing in cardiology, oncology, and ambulatory care. He’s a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist (BCPS), and his experience working one-on-one with patients to fine tune their medication and therapy plans for optimal results makes him a valuable subject matter expert for our pharmacy. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 13369