A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
LEVEMIR (Insulin detemir) is an insulin product prescribed for people with diabetes mellitus. Blood glucose that is too high or too low can be dangerous, and LEVEMIR helps regulate blood glucose and keep it within normal levels.
LEVEMIR insulin is a long-acting insulin analog. It is similar to normal human insulin but has been modified to last much longer. LEVERMIR lasts between 18-24 hours for most people.
Directions
Inject LEVEMIR insulin under the skin once or twice daily as directed by the doctor. The doctor will determine the correct dosage.
LEVEMIR is available as vials or pens. When using vials, the insulin is drawn into a syringe and then injected with a needle. Pens come pre-filled and can be administered after attaching a pen needle.
Store LEVEMIR in the refrigerator before opening. Once opened and used for the first time, keep it at room temperature and discard any remaining portion after 28 days.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in LEVEMIR is insulin detemir.
Interactions
Some drugs can mask the symptoms of low blood sugar; these drugs include:
Beta-blockers
Clonidine
Guanethidine
Reserpine
Some drugs can raise or lower blood sugar in people with diabetes. By changing the blood sugar, a different dose of insulin may be required. Monitor blood sugar more frequently if you start, stop, or change any of the following medications:
Alcohol
Atypical Antipsychotics
Corticosteroids
Disopyramide
Diuretics
Estrogens/Progesterones
Fibrates
Fluoxetine
Isoniazid
Lithium
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
Niacin
Oral antidiabetic agents
Pentoxifylline
Phenothiazine derivatives
Pramlintide
Propoxyphene
Protease inhibitors
Salicylates
Somatostatin Analogues
Somatropin
Sulfonamide Antibiotics
Sympathomimetic agents
Thyroid replacement medication
Cautions
Tell your doctor if you have made any lifestyle changes, like changes to diet and exercise. You may need to monitor blood sugar more frequently.
Monitor for signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia while taking any insulin product.
Read the vial or pen carefully before injecting LEVEMIR. Medication errors are common with insulin, and this helps to decrease the risk.
Side Effects
Some of the common adverse reactions with LEVEMIR include:
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.