Levemir (Insulin Detemir, rDNA origin)

Levemir is a long-acting insulin used to treat adults or children with type 1 diabetes. It is also used in adults with type 2 diabetes who require long-acting insulin to control their high blood sugar levels. Levemir is administered subcutaneously (just below the skin).

Do not make any changes to your insulin dose unless you have talked to your doctor. Your insulin needs may change because of illness, stress, other medicines, or changes in your diet or activity level. If you forget to take your dose of Levemir, your blood sugar may go too high. If high blood sugar is not treated it can lead to serious problems, such as passing out, coma, or even death. Tell your doctor if you experience symptoms of high blood sugar such as increased thirst, frequent urination, drowsiness, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, and fruity smelling breath. Levemir can cause low blood sugar, loss or redistribution of your fat, weight gain, or allergic reactions. Talk to your doctor about what your blood sugar should be and when you should check your blood sugar levels. Do not use Levemir with an insulin infusion pump. Do not dilute or mix Levemir with any other insulin or solution. Be careful when you drive a car or operate machinery until you know how you respond to Levemir. Your ability to concentrate or react may be reduced if you have low blood sugar. If you use too much Levemir, your blood sugar may fall low. You can treat mild low blood sugar by drinking or eating something sugary immediately (such as fruit juice, sugar candies, or glucose tablets). It is important to treat low blood sugar right away because it could get worse and you could pass out (lose consciousness). Your doctor may perform tests, including fasting blood glucose levels or A1C, while you use Levemir. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.