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Levemir

Generic: Insulin Detemir

Rx only
Insulin✓ FDA-verified
View full FDA label ↗
Levemir is a long-acting insulin used to help manage blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. It works by allowing your body to use sugar from food for energy and helps prevent the liver from making too much sugar. You can take it as an injection under the skin, either once a day or split into two doses, with a typical starting dose of 10 units for those with type 2 diabetes or a third to half of your total daily insulin dose for those with type 1 diabetes. It's important to know that you should not use Levemir if you are experiencing low blood sugar. Additionally, if you are switching from other insulin types, like insulin glargine or NPH, you may need to adjust your dose to avoid low blood sugar.

Uses

  • Type 1 diabetes.
  • Type 2 diabetes.

Dosage

Inject subcutaneously into the thigh, upper arm, or abdomen.
Administer once daily or twice daily based on needs.
For type 1 diabetes, use with rapid-acting insulin.
Adjust dose based on blood glucose monitoring results.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.

Side effects

Common

hypoglycemiainjection site reactions

Serious

allergic reactionssevere allergic reactionshypokalemialipodystrophy
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Warnings

⚠ Important warnings

  • Not recommended for diabetic ketoacidosis.
  • Monitor blood glucose more frequently during insulin changes.
  • Do not dilute or mix with other insulins.
  • Use caution in patients with visual impairment.

Drug interactions

  • Antidiabetic agentsmay increase hypoglycemia riskCaution
  • Corticosteroidsmay decrease blood glucose controlCaution
  • Beta-blockersmay blunt hypoglycemia symptomsCaution
  • Alcoholmay affect blood glucose levels.Caution

Ask about this drug

Answers pulled from the FDA label only.

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).