Insulin Detemir SubQ
In Depth
- Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
- Drug Images
Pronounced: (IN-sue-lin DET-a-meer)
Insulin Detemir SubQ Uses
This man-made insulin is very similar to human insulin. It has been changed so that it acts longer than regular human insulin, providing a low, steady level of insulin. It is used along with a proper diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar in people with diabetes. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent heart disease, strokes, kidney disease, circulation problems, blindness, and sexual function problems.
Insulin detemir may be used in combination with a shorter-acting insulin (regular), but they should not be mixed together in the same injection. In some people with diabetes, insulin may be used alone or with other diabetes drugs (e.g., sulfonylureas like glyburide).
People with diabetes do not make enough insulin for their body to properly use the sugar in food. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and using your insulin as directed can help you live an active and healthy life.
How To Use Insulin Detemir SubQ
Read the Patient Information Leaflet before you start using this insulin and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
This insulin must be injected, usually once or twice daily. Insulin detemir is usually injected with the evening meal or at bedtime. If you are using it twice a day, inject your first dose in the morning and your second dose with the evening meal, at bedtime, or 12 hours after the morning dose, as directed by your doctor. Learn all preparation and usage instructions, including how to measure the correct dose, how to inject this medication properly, and how to self-manage your diabetes (e.g., monitoring blood sugar, recognizing and treating high/low blood sugar). Your health care professional will teach you how to use this medication. If you have any questions, consult your doctor, diabetes educator, or pharmacist.
Wash hands before measuring and injecting insulin. Before using, warm this drug to room temperature if it has been refrigerated. Do not inject cold insulin because this can be painful. The insulin container you are currently using can be kept at room temperature. The length of time you can store it at room temperature depends on the product. Consult your pharmacist. (See also Storage section.)
