Detemir (Levemir): modern paradigms of insulin therapy

Peculiarities of the molecular structure of Levemir (detemir) account for low variability of its pharmacodynamic properties and are responsible for the more predictable hypoglycemic effect and the lower risk of general and nocturnal hypoglycemic episodes in different age-groups of the patents suffering type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus compared with other preparations of basal insulin. Moreover, insulin detemir (Levemir) does not affect the body weight of the patients due to its central action (rapid penetration across the hematoencephalic barrier, control of hunger and satiation, improved recognition of hypoglycemic states) and the influence on the synthesis of hormones regulating appetite and energy metabolism. Insulin detemir is shown to possess neurotropic properties, such as hepato-selective action on the liver, lipid metabolism, and sodium re-absorption.