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Basal Insulin·Endocrinology - Insulins & Injectables
Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
Max Dose
Titrated
Duration
16-24 h
Freq
OFTEN BD
Weight Gain
LOWER RISK
Overview
Long-acting basal insulin. Binds to albumin in the blood to delay its action. Often lasts less than 24 hours, frequently requiring twice-daily dosing to prevent gap hyperglycemia.
Maximum Dose
Titrated strictly to fasting BSL.
Clinical Focus
Uniquely associated with slightly LESS weight gain than Glargine or old NPH insulins.
Bottom Line
Insulin detemir is a long-acting basal insulin with less weight gain than glargine, but may require twice-daily dosing and has largely been superseded by insulin degludec.
Brand Names
Levemir
Parenteral
Pre-filled pens or cartridges for SC injection (100 U/mL). Clear solution.
Prescribing & PBS
Authority Required (PBS).
Primary
Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes.
Clinical Place
A solid basal insulin, but increasingly superseded by Glargine or Degludec due to its annoying tendency to require BD injections in many patients.