Precautions
For type 2 diabetes, the usual starting dosage of Levemir is 10 units once per day in the evening. Or your doctor may prescribe a dose that’s based on your body weight in kg. The usual dosage range is 0.1 units/kg to 0.2 units/kg once per day in the evening. Here’s an example of a Levemir dosage chart for type 2 diabetes:
How much Levemir is too much?
Levemir and Lantus are both long-acting insulins prescribed to treat type 1 and type 2 diabetes. They can help you manage your blood sugar level over the course of a day, but they are not the same. The two insulins contain different active ingredients. Levemir contains insulin detemir and Lantus contains insulin glargine.
Is Lantus and Levemir the same?
Levemir is a type of baseline insulin that is slowly released, resulting in a long duration of action. Long-acting, baseline insulins such as Levemir are commonly used in combination with short- or rapid-acting insulins, with the short- or rapid-acting insulin being used around meals.
Is Levemir short or long acting?
What is equivalent to Levemir? trend treehozz.com. There are a couple of alternatives to Levemir that you may want to talk with your doctor about.First off, Lantus and the more affordable biosimilar, Basaglar, are both long-acting insulins used for type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Lantus and Basaglar provide the same units of insulin per milliliter as Levemir.
What is equivalent to Levemir?
How long does it take for Levemir to lower blood sugar?
How long does it take for Levemir (insulin detemir) to start working? It starts working several hours after injection and continues working for up to 24 hours. Most people will only need to inject Levemir (insulin detemir) once daily.
What does Levemir do for diabetes?
Levemir is a type of long-acting insulin used to treat patients with diabetes by keeping blood sugar levels under control. Produced by Novo Nordisk Limited, Levemir is the trade name for insulin detemir, a man-made form of insulin that is used as a substitute for the body's natural insulin in diabetic patients.
What are the side effects of Levemir?
Learn more about some of the side effects Levemir may cause.Weight gain. Levemir may cause weight gain. ... Headache. Headache is a common side effect of Levemir. ... Swelling in the arms or legs. Levemir can cause fluid buildup in your arms or legs. ... Changes to the skin near an injection site. ... Low blood sugar. ... Allergic reaction.
Does Levemir raise or lower blood sugar?
Levemir lowers your blood sugar levels and will worsen hypoglycemia. This may be life threatening. Before starting Levemir, talk with your doctor about how to recognize and manage hypoglycemia.
What happens if you stop taking Levemir?
If taken once daily, Levemir should be administered with the evening meal or at bedtime. If taken twice daily, take the second dose 12 hours after the evening meal or bedtime dose. Missing a dose: If you miss a dose or take too small a dose, you may wind up with elevated blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia).
Is Levemir a good insulin?
Both Levemir and Lantus are great options for long-acting insulin therapy. They are equally effective for managing blood sugar levels.
Can Levemir cause heart failure?
Fluid retention may lead to or exacerbate heart failure. Patients treated with insulin, including Levemir, and a PPAR-gamma agonist should be observed for signs and symptoms of heart failure.
Does Levemir help you lose weight?
Most patients (82%) used Levemir® once daily. The results indicate that after 14 weeks, the individuals taking Levemir® lost 0.7 kg of body weight (1.5 lbs) compared to baseline (p<0.001). The weight loss was more pronounced in those who entered the trial at higher weight.
Should I give Levemir If blood sugar is low?
Before taking this medicine Do not use during an episode of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or diabetic ketoacidosis (call your doctor for treatment). To make sure Levemir is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had: low levels of potassium in your blood (hypokalemia); or. liver or kidney disease.
Is 10 units of Levemir a lot?
Dosage for type 2 diabetes The usual starting dose of Levemir for type 2 diabetes is 10 units. Or your doctor may prescribe a dose based on your body weight. The usual dosage range is from 0.1 units/kg to 0.2 units/kg. You'll likely inject your dose once per day in the evening.
What drugs interact with Levemir?
Most frequently checked interactionsamlodipine.aspirin.Aspirin Low Strength (aspirin)atorvastatin.carvedilol.furosemide.gabapentin.Humalog (insulin lispro)More items...
Is 10 units of insulin a lot?
Long-acting (basal) insulin. Each has its own dosage. Depending on the type, you might start with 10 units a day. Or your doctor may base the first dose on your weight, based on about 0.2 units for every 2.2 pounds. This may be less than you need, but it's a good starting point.
Before Taking This Medicine
You should not use Levemir if you are allergic to insulin detemir, or if you are having an episode of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).Levemir should...
How Should I Use Levemir?
Use Levemir exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller a...
Levemir Dosing Information
Usual Adult Dose of Levemir for Diabetes Type 1:Dose should be individualized based on clinical response; this basal insulin should be used in regi...
What Happens If I Miss A Dose?
Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose of Levemir. Keep insulin on hand at all times. Get your prescription refilled before you run o...
What Happens If I Overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. Insulin overdose can cause life-threatening hypoglycemia. Symptoms...
What Should I Avoid While Using Levemir?
Insulin can cause low blood sugar. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.Avoid medication errors by...
What Other Drugs Will Affect Levemir?
Many other medicines can affect your blood sugar, and some medicines can increase or decrease the effects of insulin. Some drugs can also cause you...
Can you take Levemir (insulin detemir) and metformin together?
Levemir (insulin detemir) can be taken with other oral diabetes medications, like metformin, if your blood sugar level needs better control. Talk t...
What kind of insulin is Levemir (insulin detemir)?
Levemir (insulin detemir) is a long-acting insulin that works for up to 24 hours to lower your blood sugar.
Can pregnant women take Levemir (insulin detemir)?
Levemir (insulin detemir) is the first and only long-acting insulin to receive a pregnancy category B rating, which means that it is considered saf...
What is the difference between Levemir (insulin detemir) and Lantus?
Lantus doesn't break down as well once injected under the skin compared to Levemir (insulin detemir), so it is absorbed more slowly and has a longe...
How long does it take for Levemir (insulin detemir) to start working?
It starts working several hours after injection and continues working for up to 24 hours. Most people will only need to inject Levemir (insulin det...
What are the forms of Levemir?
Levemir is a medication that you inject under your skin. It’s a liquid solution that comes in two forms:
What strength does Levemir come in?
Levemir comes in one strength of 100 units of insulin detemir per ml (units/ml). This strength of insulin is abbreviated as “U-100.”
What are the typical dosages of Levemir?
Doctors usually prescribe a low starting dose of Levemir. Then they’ll adjust it over time to reach the right amount for you. Your doctor will ultimately prescribe the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect.
Is Levemir used long term?
Yes, Levemir is typically a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that Levemir is safe and effective for you, you’ll likely use it long term.
Dosage adjustments
If you have certain medical conditions or take certain medications, your doctor may monitor you more carefully during your treatment. They may adjust your dosage of Levemir to avoid interactions or worsening of your condition.
What is sliding-scale dosage? And should I use this sort of dosing method with Levemir?
Sliding-scale dosage is an insulin dosing method that’s used in certain situations for mealtime (rapid-acting) insulin. But a sliding scale should not be used with Levemir.
What factors might make a twice-daily dosage of Levemir better than a once-daily dosage?
For some people, twice-daily dosing of Levemir may help to manage blood sugar levels better than once-daily dosing.
How much does Levemir lower blood sugar?
Levemir also lowered fasting blood sugar by an average of 69 mg/dL over 24 weeks. In comparison, people taking insulin NPH had their fasting blood sugar lowered by an average of 74 mg/dL. For more information on Levemir’s effectiveness, see the “Levemir uses” section.
How long does it take for Levemir to lower hemoglobin?
A clinical study compared Levemir and Tresiba, each used alongside Novolog (insulin aspart), to treat type 1 diabetes in adults. After 26 weeks , people taking Levemir had their hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) lowered by an average of 0.61%. People taking Tresiba had their HbA1c lowered by an average of 0.71%.
How many units of Levemir are in a vial?
Levemir comes as a solution (liquid mixture). The solution is available in two forms: a vial and a prefilled pen. The vial contains 10 milliliters (mL) of drug solution, with 100 units of insulin detemir per mL. It’s used with a needle for injection.
What is Tresiba used for?
adults with type 2 diabetes. Tresiba is used to lower blood sugar in: adults and children ages 1 year and older with type 1 diabetes. adults and children ages 1 year and older with type 2 diabetes.
What age is Basaglar used?
adults with type 2 diabetes. Basaglar is used to lower blood sugar levels in: adults and children ages 6 years or older with type 1 diabetes. adults with type 2 diabetes.
Can Levemir cause side effects?
Serious side effects from Levemir aren’t common, but they can occur. Call your doctor right away if you have serious side effects. Call 911 if your symptoms feel life threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency.
Does Levemir lower hemoglobin?
In clinical studies, adults with type 1 diabetes who took Levemir had their hemoglobin A1c (H bA1c) lowered by an average of 0.1% to 0.8%. In comparison, adults who took either insulin NPH (an intermediate-acting insulin) or insulin glargine ( Lantus ), a long-acting insulin, had their HbA1c lowered by an average of 0% to 0.7%.
How long does it take for Levemir to work?
It starts working several hours after injection and continues working for up to 24 hours. Most people will only need to inject Levemir (insulin detemir) once daily.
What hormone is released by Levemir?
Levemir (insulin detemir) releases a hormone called insulin into the body to lower glucose (sugar) levels in the blood.
How much insulin is needed for Levemir?
Typical dosing for Levemir (insulin detemir) Type 1 diabetes: The typical starting dose is 33% of your total daily insulin requirement given once daily in the evening or divided into 2 doses. Type 2 diabetes: The typical starting dose is 10 units (or 0.1-0.2 units/kg of body weight) given once daily in the evening or divided into 2 doses.
Is Levemir safe for pregnancy?
Levemir (insulin detemir) is the first and only long-acting insulin to receive a pregnancy category B rating, which means that it is considered safe for use.
What is Levemir and what is it used for?
Levemir is a man-made form of a hormone that is produced in the body. It works by lowering levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. It is a long-acting form of insulin that is slightly different from other forms of insulin that are not man-made.
Important information about Levemir
Many other drugs can potentially interfere with the effects of Levemir. It is extremely important that you tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.
Levemir side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of insulin allergy: itching skin rash over the entire body, wheezing, trouble breathing, fast heart rate, sweating, or feeling like you might pass out.
What is Levemir Flextouch used for?
Levemir FlexTouch is used to improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes mellitus. Levemir FlexTouch is for use in adults and children at least 2 years old. Levemir FlexTouch may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
How long can you keep Levemir insulin?
Storing unopened (not in use) Levemir FlexTouch: Refrigerate and use until expiration date; or. Store at room temperature and use within 42 days. Storing opened (in use) Levemir FlexTouch: Store the vial in a refrigerator or at room temperature and use within 42 days.
How long does Levemir Flextouch work?
Levemir FlexTouch is a long-acting insulin that starts to work several hours after injection and keeps working evenly for 24 hours.
What to do if you have low blood sugar?
You may have low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and feel very hungry, dizzy, irritable, confused, anxious, or shaky. To quickly treat hypoglycemia, eat or drink a fast-acting source of sugar (fruit juice, hard candy, crackers, raisins, or non-diet soda).
Can you inject Levemir Flextouch into skin?
Do not inject Levemir FlexTouch into skin that is damaged, tender, bruised, pitted, thickened, scaly, or has a scar or hard lump.
Can you use Levemir Flextouch if you are allergic to it?
You should not use Levemir FlexTouch if you are allergic to it. Do not use during an episode of hypoglycemia ( low blood sugar) or diabetic ketoacidosis (call your doctor for treatment).
Does Levemir Flextouch cause rash?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of insulin allergy: redness or swelling where an injection was given, itchy skin rash over the entire body, trouble breathing, fast heartbeats, feeling like you might pass out, or swelling in your tongue or throat.
What is Levemir used for?
Levemir is a man-made insulin that is used to control high blood sugar in adults and children with diabetes mellitus.
What to know before taking Levemir?
Before you start taking Levemir, talk to your healthcare provider about low blood sugar and how to manage it.
How to store Levemir?
Store unopened Levemir vials in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
How long does it take to throw away Levemir?
Throw away all opened Levemir vials after 42 days, even if they still have insulin left in them.
Where is Levemir injected?
Levemir is injected under the skin (subcutaneously) of your upper legs (thighs), upper arms, or stomach area (abdomen).
Can you share a Levemir Flextouch?
Do not share your Levemir FlexTouch with other people, even if the needle has been changed. You may give other people a serious infection, or get a serious infection from them.
Can Levemir cause death?
Levemir may cause serious side effects that can lead to death, including:
Levemir Side Effects
Generic Name: insulin detemir (IN su lin DE te mir) Brand Names: Levemir, Levemir FlexPen What is Levemir? Levemir (insulin detemir) is a man-made form of insulin, a hormone that is produced in the body. Insulin works by lowering levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood.
Insulin Detemir
Insulin detemir is a long-acting human insulin analogue for maintaining the basal level of insulin. Novo Nordisk markets it under the trade name Levemir. It is an insulin analogue in which a fatty acid (myristic acid) is bound to the lysine amino acid at position B29.
Levemir (insulin Detemir)
Tweet Levemir is a type of long-acting insulin used to treat patients with diabetes by keeping blood sugar levels under control. Produced by Novo Nordisk Limited, Levemir is the trade name for insulin detemir, a man-made form of insulin that is used as a substitute for the body's natural insulin in diabetic patients.
Levemir
Levemir detemir by Novo Nordisk long-acting analog U100 Special-via albumin binding Line new molecular entity Also known as Detemir (generic) Similar to Lantus, ultralente Action in cats dose dependent peak times onset ~3h, flattish peak at 8 to 12h duration 10-24h depending on dose Action in dogs use 1/4 usual dose for dogs! onset Xh (unknown), peak Xh, duration Xh See Fleeman-Rand protocol [1] Use and Handling Type clear Shelf Life 24 months When opened 6 weeks room temp.
Levemir Vial
Uses Insulin detemir is used with a proper diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar in people with diabetes. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, loss of limbs, and sexual function problems. Proper control of diabetes may also lessen your risk of a heart attack or stroke.
The Listing Of Lantus And Levemir On The Pbs
What is the Government’s decision on Lantus and Levemir? The Government has accepted recommendations from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) to list the drugs insulin glargine (Lantus) and insulin detemir (Levemir) on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Lantus and Levemir will be listed on the PBS from 1 October 2006.
Levemir
How does this medication work? What will it do for me? Insulin is a naturally occurring hormone made by the pancreas that helps our body use or store the glucose (sugar) it gets from food.
Weight gain
Some people may have weight gain while taking Levemir. Weight gain is a common side effect of all types of insulin. And Levemir is a type of insulin.
Skin thickening, dents, or lumps at the injection site
Lipodystrophy (skin thickening, dents, or lumps at the injection site) is a common side effect of Levemir treatment. It can occur due to changes in how your body stores fat under your skin.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is a common side effect of Levemir. This was the most common side effect in clinical trials of the drug.
Reactions at the injection site
People taking Levemir may have reactions at the injection site. Levemir is a drug that you’ll inject under the skin of your thighs, upper arm, or abdomen.
Allergic reaction
As with most drugs, Levemir can cause an allergic reaction in some people. But it’s not clear whether this side effect occurred in clinical trials.
Alcohol use with Levemir
Alcohol isn’t known to interact with Levemir. However, drinking alcohol too much or too often can make your diabetes more difficult to manage. This is because alcohol can raise or lower your blood sugar levels. And Levemir is used to reduce blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Levemir
Levemir is safe to use while pregnant. In clinical trials, Levemir was studied in pregnant females* with type 1 diabetes. The results did not increase the risk of harm to the fetus.
Can Levemir cause kidney-related side effects?
No, there haven’t been reports of kidney-related side effects in studies of Levemir. But if you have serious kidney disease, let your doctor know before starting treatment with Levemir. Serious kidney problems can change the amount of Levemir in your bloodstream.
Are there side effects specific to the Levemir FlexTouch pen?
No, there aren’t any. Side effects are similar for the two forms of Levemir: prefilled FlexTouch pens* and vials filled with liquid for injection by syringe.
Are mood changes a side effect of Levemir?
No, Levemir isn’t known to cause mood changes, also referred to as mood swings. In studies of the drug, mood changes weren’t reported as a side effect.
Weight gain
Levemir may cause weight gain. This is a common side effect of all forms of insulin. Studies have shown that Levemir can cause small weight increases in people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. But it causes less weight gain than other types of long-acting insulin.
Headache
Headache is a common side effect of Levemir. If you have migraine or a history of headaches, let your doctor know. Your doctor can help you decide if Levemir is the right treatment option for you.
Swelling in the arms or legs
Levemir can cause fluid buildup in your arms or legs. This can result in swelling in the arms or legs, or other areas of the body.
Changes to the skin near an injection site
Using injectable insulin such as Levemir for a long time can cause changes to the skin near an injection site. This is referred to as lipodystrophy. The skin may become thicker, pitted, or thinner from repeated injections to the same area.
