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.

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