by Dr Pandula Siribaddana

Created on: September 28, 2010   Last Updated: September 30, 2010

What is ‘Levemir’?

Levemir is an insulin therapy which can be used for either type I or early onset diabetes as well as for type II or late onset diabetes. It belongs to the group of insulin which is considered to be long acting and would be scheduled to give as a single or twice daily dose. Being a long acting insulin, Levemir would be able to maintain a sustained level of insulin throughout the day which can achieve better overall control than a rapidly acting insulin agent. Furthermore, in comparison to other long and intermediate acting insulin, Levemir has shown potential on relatively less influence over weight gain although more research evidence would be required to substantiate such claims.

How is it given?

As with any other insulin therapy, the injection of Levemir should be given as a sub-cutaneous injection at a site in the belly around the umbilicus, upper arms or else over the thigh. In practice, the hormones should be given at different sites each day which would be useful to prevent some of the side effects which may manifest as a consequence of using the same site over and over again.

What are the side effects that may manifest with Levemir?

Side effects pertaining to Levemir would be relatively few and many patients would tolerate the drug to satisfactory levels. But, in certain instances, as with any other drug, there is a possibility of developing side effects which can include allergic reactions, local site reactions as well as manifestations related to low blood glucose levels.

-Manifestations due to allergic reactions

Although the possibilities are rather few, an allergic reaction would manifest as swelling of the lips, face, tongue and the throat, itching of the skin, appearance of hives or even as a breathing difficulty in very severe instances. Such manifestations should prompt the need for urgent medical attention without letting the symptoms to progress.

-Manifestations due to low blood sugar levels

Probably one of the most common groups of side effects, hypoglycemic attacks can be common among users who do not adhere to the prescribed doses or else does not take adequate oral feeds to sustain the minimum required blood sugar levels even in the presence of Levemir. Thus, these individuals may develop sweating, feeling of unwell, shakiness, feeling of hunger, confusion, dizziness, blurry vision, difficulty in speaking, seizures as well as loss of consciousness. In such instances, if adequately conscious, the person should be given an immediate drink containing sugar or else urgent medical attention at the closest health care facility.

-Local reactions

In certain instances, there may be local thickening or pitting at the injection site and this can be avoided in most instances through the use of different sites. At the same time, local reactions such as itching, reddening and pain can also take place although proper administering can prevent most of these reactions.

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