An Introduction to Insulin Detemir Side Effects
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with
insulin detemir (
Levemir®). However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, many people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, they are often minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with insulin detemir. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of insulin detemir side effects with you.)
Serious Side Effects of Insulin Detemir: Warning Signs
Insulin detemir has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, the side effects that occurred in a group of people taking insulin detemir were documented and compared to the side effects that occurred in another group of people taking a different form of insulin, usually NPH insulin or
insulin glargine (
Lantus®).
While studies for most medications compare the medication to a placebo (a "sugar pill" that does not contain any active ingredients), this is not usually possible for
diabetes medication like insulin detemir. It would be unethical to give a placebo to people with
diabetes, as it is essential to keep blood sugar under control. This is why insulin detemir was compared to other insulins, rather than to a placebo.
Some side effects with insulin detemir are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. Some of the warning signs of serious side effects include:
- Symptoms of low blood sugar, such as:
- Sweating
- Shakiness
- Extreme hunger
- Dizziness
- Cold sweats
- Blurry vision
- Changes in behavior, such as irritability
- Loss of coordination
- Difficulty speaking
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Unconsciousness
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
- An unexplained rash
- Hives
- Itching
- Swelling of the mouth or throat
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing.
