INSULIN DETEMIR

Generic Name : INSULIN DETEMIR

TradeName : LEVEMIR FLEXPEN FlexPen

Why it is prescribed (Indications) : This medication is prescribed for diabetes in patients with need of insulin to control their diabetes. It is a long-acting insulin. It helps to control the levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. It works by helping move sugar from the blood into other body tissues where it is used for energy. It also stops the liver from producing more sugar.

When it is not to be taken (Contraindications) : Do not admin by Intravenous, Intra muscular or via insulin infusion pump. Hypersensitivity to any component.

When it is to be taken : SC In insulin-naive patients with type 2 diabetes who are not well controlled on oral antidiabetic drugs: Initial: 0.1-0.2 u/kg once daily in the evening or 10 u 1-2 times/day, adjust subsequently based on glucose control. In patients on basal insulin only: May substitute with insulin detemir on a unit-for-unit basis based on the current basal insulin dosage; adjust subsequently to achieve glucose targets.

How it should be taken : It comes as a solution (liquid) to inject subcutaneously (under the skin). It is usually injected once a day, with the evening meal or at bedtime, or twice a day, in the morning and in the evening with the evening meal or at bedtime.

Special Instruction :
 It may affect liver or kidney functions.  Regular monitoring of blood glucose and HbA1c.  Continuous rotation of the injection site within a given area to reduce injection site reactions (allergic reactions that result in cutaneous necrosis)  Inform your doctor about your pregnancy and lactation

Side Effects :
CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM
Headache, neuropathy, seizure, sensory disturbances.
SKIN
Inflammation of injection site, itching, rash, skin disorder.
EYE AND ENT
Blurred vision, inflammation of nasopharynx.
GI
Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea.
GENITOURINARY
Urinary tract infection.
HYPERSENSITIVITY
Hypersensitivity reaction (including anaphylaxis, angioedema, fast pulse, hypotension, rash, shortness of breath, sweating), insulin antibody production.
LAB TESTS
Elevated alkaline phosphatase.
METABOLIC-NUTRITIONAL
Low blood sugar, low potassium level, weight gain.
RESPIRATORY
Upper respiratory tract infection.
MISCELLANEOUS Accidental injury, chest pain, absent reflexes, influenza, peripheral edema.

Other Precautions :
It is not to be used in insulin infusion pumps.

Storage Conditions :
Subcutaneous: Unopened preparation: Store between 2-8°C (36-46° F). Do not freeze.