Insulin Detemir: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
LEVEMIR is indicated for once- or twice-daily subcutaneous administration for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus or adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who require basal
- Data source
- FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (label 2b8d9730…)
- Label version
- current
- Last reviewed
- 2026
Reported adverse reactions
Reactions listed in current FDA labeling, with the highest frequency reported across summarized placebo-controlled trials.
| Adverse reaction (as reported in labeling) | Reported frequency* |
|---|---|
| Study e | 83.7% |
| Study f | 82.3% |
| Study c | 76.5% |
| Nph | 76.4% |
| Study a | 75.1% |
| Study d pediatric | 2.677% |
*Highest percentage reported for the active moiety across placebo-controlled trial tables in current FDA labeling. Values reflect trial reporting, not your individual risk.
Labeled uses (from FDA prescribing information)
LEVEMIR is indicated for once- or twice-daily subcutaneous administration for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus or adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who require basal (long acting) insulin for the control of hyperglycemia.
Tests providers may use to monitor Insulin Detemir therapy
Fasting Glucose
Measures blood sugar after fasting to screen for diabetes and prediabetes....
Glucose Blood Test
The glucose test is a blood test used to measure glucose (blood sugar) levels. Glucose is the major source of ...
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)
Reflects average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months....
Conditions associated with Insulin Detemir in labeling
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Insulin Detemir used for?
FDA labeling lists the approved uses shown above under "Labeled uses." This summary is informational; only a qualified prescriber can determine whether a medication is appropriate for you.
What are the most commonly reported side effects of Insulin Detemir?
The table above shows adverse reactions and the highest frequencies reported in placebo-controlled trials summarized in current FDA labeling for Insulin Detemir. Individual risk varies.
Does Insulin Detemir require lab monitoring?
Labeling and standard practice associate Insulin Detemir with periodic laboratory monitoring; the tests above are commonly ordered by clinicians to monitor patients on therapy. Your provider decides what is appropriate.
Where does this information come from?
All clinical facts on this page were extracted from the current FDA-registered product labeling for this ingredient, published by manufacturers through NIH DailyMed. See the source link below.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content extracted from public FDA labeling. Not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.