Insulin Degludec

Know your medicine one dose at a time! By Dr Manish Bothale

Mechanism of action

Insulin Degludec is ultra-long acting basal insulin which provides 24 to 48 hr basal insulin coverage as compared to the others. Insulin Degludec, is available in two strengths: 100 units/ml and 200 units/ml. Insulin Degludec also has the ability to be mixed with other insulins, thereby improving glycaemic control. It has a flexible, three times a week dosing regimen that can be administered at any time of the day.

Rx

It is administered by a subcutaneous injection only.

Advantages

The advantages of Insulin Degludec are-

• It releases a steady, stable, peak less, continuous insulin concentration for at least 24 hours
• It has the ability to be used as mono-therapy and as part of a basal-bolus regime, as well as in combination with oral hypoglycemic
• It is efficacious, safe and well tolerated in people with both Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
• It can be used once daily or thrice weekly, thus representing an advance over the existing insulin
• It is possible to change time of insulin injection, if needed
• There is no weight gain

Side effects

It may result in hypoglycemia (but it has a very low incidence rate as compared to other available insulin)

May be used

Adults who have Diabetes (both Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes) may use Insulin Degludec. It is also useful for people who have glycaemic variability.

Should not be used by

• Children with Diabetes (age below 18 years)
• Patients with hypersensitivity

Dr Manish Bothale is Consultant Diabetologist at Chellaram Diabetes Institute in Pune