Levemir Flexpen

Levemir Flexpen Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Levemir Flexpen is a brand name. Its generic name is Insulin Detemir.

Introduction

Levemir Flexpen is an insulin analog that is used as a long-acting insulin for adults and children with diabetes mellitus. It has a "tail" attached to it that binds to body tissues and slows the absorption and action of insulin. This helps it to provide more even levels of blood glucose control for up to 24 hours.

Uses for

Levemir Flexpen is used to lower blood glucose in people who have type 1 diabetes (diabetes mellitus) and to help control blood glucose levels in people who have type 2 diabetes. It is usually used together with a short-acting insulin that is taken before meals.

Mechanism of Action

Levemir Flexpen works by stimulating the uptake of glucose into cells, increasing the production of glycogen, and inhibiting the production of glucose by the liver. It also helps to reduce ketoacidosis (high levels of ketones in the blood due to an insufficiency of insulin).

How Long Does It Take To Work

Levemir Flexpen typically begins to work after 30 minutes and can be effective for up to 24 hours.

Absorption

Levemir Flexpen is slowly absorbed by the body, with peak levels typically occurring between 6 and 8 hours after administration.

Route of Elimination

Levemir Flexpen is eliminated from the body by renal excretion and metabolism in the liver.

Dosage

Dosage of Levemir Flexpen is individualized and based on the needs and response of the patient. The usual starting dose for adults with type 1 diabetes is 8–16 U per day. The dosage should be adjusted according to the patient's blood glucose levels, usually every five to 10 days.

Administration

Levemir Flexpen can be taken either subcutaneously by injection or by an insulin pump.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Levemir Flexpen include hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), weight gain, headaches, nausea, and injection site reactions.

Toxicity

Levemir Flexpen is considered to be well tolerated, however high doses may lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugars).

Precautions

Patients taking Levemir Flexpen should monitor their blood glucose levels regularly and follow instructions for proper injection techniques. Additionally, patients should monitor for side effects such as hypoglycemia, weight gain, or injection site reactions.

Interaction

Levemir Flexpen may interact with certain medications (such as barbiturates, beta-blockers, diuretics, and oral antidiabetics) or alcohol. Therefore it is important to tell your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking before starting Levemir Flexpen.

Disease Interaction

Levemir Flexpen should not be used in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus who are at risk for ketoacidosis, as well as in patients with unstable or severe renal or hepatic impairment.

Drug Interaction

Drugs that can interact with Levemir Flexpen include barbiturates, beta-blockers, diuretics, and oral antidiabetic agents.

Food Interactions

Foods that can interact with Levemir Flexpen include those that are high in sugar, particularly simple sugars such as candy, fruit juices, soda, and baked goods.

Pregnancy Use

Levemir Flexpen is not recommended for use in pregnant women unless clearly needed. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should discuss the benefits and risks of taking Levemir Flexpen with their doctor.

Lactation Use

Levemir Flexpen should be used with caution in breastfeeding mothers. Before taking it, women should discuss any potential risks with their doctor.

Acute Overdose

Overdose of Levemir Flexpen can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and seizures. Treatment of overdose should include the administration of sugar or glucose and close monitoring of the patient’s blood glucose levels.

Contraindication

Levemir Flexpen is contraindicated in patients who have had an allergic reaction to it or any of its ingredients, as well as those with type 1 diabetes mellitus who are at risk for ketoacidosis.

Use Direction

Levemir Flexpen should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. It should not be taken without the supervision of a healthcare provider.

Storage Condition

Levemir Flexpen should be stored in the refrigerator between 2-8°C (36-46°F). It should be protected from light and should not be frozen.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution for Levemir Flexpen is 79.2 L.

Half Life

The half life of Levemir Flexpen is 23.3 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of Levemir Flexpen is 200 mL/min.

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