How to use Levemir Vial

• Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor, diabetes educator, or pharmacist. 
• Learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional and the product package. 
• Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the insulin. Insulin detemir should be clear and colorless. 
• Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. Change where you inject each time to lessen the risk of problems or damage under the skin (for example, pits/lumps or thickened skin). Insulin detemir may be injected in the stomach area, the thigh, or the back of the upper arm. Do not inject into a vein or muscle because very low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) may occur. Do not rub the area after the injection. Do not inject into skin that is red, swollen, itchy, or damaged. Do not inject cold insulin because this can be painful. The insulin container you are currently using can be kept at room temperature (see also Storage section). Do not shake the container. 
• Inject this medication under the skin as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily. Insulin detemir is usually injected with the evening meal or at bedtime. If you are using it twice a day, inject as directed by your doctor, usually your first dose in the morning and your second dose with the evening meal, at bedtime, or 12 hours after the morning dose. 
• This product should not be mixed with any other insulin. Do not use insulin detemir in an infusion pump. 
• Do not change brands or types of insulin without directions on how to do so from your doctor. 
• Do not share your pen device with another person, even if the needle is changed. You may give other people a serious infection, or get a serious infection from them. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely. 
• The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Measure each dose very carefully because even small changes in the amount of insulin may have a large effect on your blood sugar. 
• Check your blood sugar regularly as directed by your doctor. Keep track of your results and share them with your doctor. This is very important in order to determine the correct insulin dose. 
• Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.

  Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens (your blood sugar is too high or too low).