Source: FDA label
| Molecular formula | C267H402N64O76S6 |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 5917 g/mol |
| Registered trials | 240 |
| PubChem CID | 16137271 |
| Drug class | Insulin Analog [EPC] |
| Brand names | Levemir |
Mechanism of Action
12.1 Mechanism of Action The primary activity of insulin, including LEVEMIR, is regulation of glucose metabolism. Insulins and its analogs lower blood glucose by stimulating peripheral glucose uptake, especially by skeletal muscle and fat, and by inhibiting hepatic glucose production. Insulin also inhibits lipolysis and proteolysis, and enhances protein synthesis.
Managing blood glucose day to day often means choosing between insulin options that differ in how long and how steadily they act. Insulin detemir is a long-acting insulin analog designed to provide steady background glucose control rather than the rapid action used around meals.
Key takeaways
- Insulin detemir is FDA-approved under the brand name Levemir for glycemic control in diabetes mellitus.
- It is approved for both adult and pediatric patients.
- It is not recommended for treating diabetic ketoacidosis.
- The label carries no boxed warning.
- More than 240 clinical trials have studied this compound, including head-to-head comparisons with other insulins.
What Insulin Detemir Is
Insulin detemir belongs to the insulin analog drug class. Like natural insulin, it works by helping the body regulate glucose metabolism. It lowers blood glucose by prompting tissues such as skeletal muscle and fat to take up more glucose from the blood, while also reducing the liver's own glucose output. The compound additionally slows the breakdown of fat and protein and supports protein building, mirroring the broader physiological roles of insulin in the body.
What Insulin Detemir Is Approved For
Levemir is approved to improve glycemic control in adult and pediatric patients with diabetes mellitus. The label specifically notes it is not recommended for treating diabetic ketoacidosis, a limitation of use rather than a safety warning. No boxed warning appears on the label.
What the Evidence Shows
Insulin detemir has been investigated in more than 240 registered clinical trials. A completed Phase 3 study compared another insulin formulation, NN5401, plus insulin aspart against insulin detemir plus insulin aspart in people with type 1 diabetes. A separate completed Phase 3 trial examined antibody formation as a safety measure for insulin detemir manufactured by a new production process in type 1 diabetes patients. A Phase 2 study comparing detemir against NPH insulin is currently recruiting participants.
FAQ
What is insulin detemir used for?
Insulin detemir, sold as Levemir, is approved to improve glycemic control in adults and children with diabetes mellitus. It functions as a long-acting background insulin rather than a rapid-acting mealtime insulin. It is not recommended for treating diabetic ketoacidosis.
How does insulin detemir work?
It works like natural insulin by helping muscle and fat tissue absorb more glucose from the bloodstream while reducing glucose production in the liver. It also slows the breakdown of fat and protein in the body. This combination helps keep blood glucose levels in a steadier range.
Is insulin detemir approved for children?
Yes, the label for Levemir covers both adult and pediatric patients with diabetes mellitus. The same mechanism of action applies across these age groups.
Does insulin detemir have a boxed warning?
No, the current label for Levemir does not carry a boxed warning.
How much clinical research exists on insulin detemir?
More than 240 clinical trials have been registered studying insulin detemir. These include completed Phase 3 comparisons with other insulin formulations and an ongoing Phase 2 trial comparing it with NPH insulin.
This page is an editorial information resource. It does not sell, prescribe, or recommend any medication.
Content is editorial information, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor before any treatment decision.
Sources: FDA label (Levemir) ClinicalTrials.gov PubChem
Updated 2026-11-07