Levemir is a prescription medication approved to treat both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. This medication is a long-acting insulin, and works by providing a steady level of insulin to help control blood sugar levels throughout the day. Levemir comes in injectable form and is typically used once or twice a day. Possible side effects include low blood sugar levels and skin reactions at the injection site.
Levemir is manufactured by Novo Nordisk.
Studies have shown that once- or twice-daily Levemir works similarly to once- or twice-daily NPH insulin (an intermediate-acting insulin) in adults and children with
type 1 diabetes and in adults with type 2 diabetes. Studies have also shown that twice-daily Levemir works similarly to once-daily insulin glargine (Lantus
®), a long-acting insulin, in adults with type 1 diabetes.
More importantly, studies seem to suggest that people may gain less weight with Levemir, compared to those using Lantus or NPH insulin, although further research is necessary to confirm these findings.