Levemir (Insulin Detemir)

Levemir (Insulin Detemir)

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. Levemir is a long-acting insulin that starts to work several hours after injection and keeps working evenly for up to 24 hours. Levemir is used to improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes mellitus. This medicine is for use in adults and children at least 2 years old.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Levemir if you are allergic to iinsulin detemir. 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.

Tell your doctor if you also take pioglitazone or rosiglitazone (sometimes contained in combinations with glimepiride or metformin). Taking certain oral diabetes medicines while you are using Levemir may increase your risk of serious heart problems.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Follow your doctor’s instructions about using Levemir if you are pregnant or you become pregnant.Controlling diabetes is very important during pregnancy, and having high blood sugar may cause complications in both the mother and the baby.

How should I use Levemir?

Use Levemir exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets.

Levemir is injected under the skin. A healthcare provider may teach you how to properly use the medication by yourself.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you don’t understand all instructions.

Prepare an injection only when you are ready to give it. Do not use if the medicine looks cloudy, has changed colors, or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.

If you use this medicine once daily, use the injection at your evening meal or at bedtime. If you use the medicine twice daily, use your evening dose at least 12 hours after your morning dose.

Never share a Levemir injection pen or syringe with another person, even if the needle has been changed. Sharing these devices can allow infections or disease to pass from one person to another.

Blood sugar levels can be affected by stress, illness, surgery, exercise, alcohol use, or skipping meals. Ask your doctor before changing your dose or medication schedule.

Levemir is only part of a complete treatment program that may also include diet, exercise, weight control, regular blood sugar testing, and special medical care. Follow your doctor’s instructions very closely.

Storing unopened (not in use) Levemir:

• Refrigerate and use until expiration date; or
• Store at room temperature and use within 42 days.

Storing opened (in use) Levemir:

• Store the vial in a refrigerator or at room temperature and use within 42 days.
• Store the injection pen at room temperature (do not refrigerate) and use within 42 days. Do not store the injection pen with a needle attached.