Abstract
Long acting insulin analogue detemir (Levemir) has been developed for predictive basal insulin delivery. Mechanism of changing HM insulin molecule is different than in available analogues of insulin: lispro, aspart and glargine.
The protracted action of detemir is mediated by albumin binding in interstitium and blood via the myristic acid group (fatty acid) on the position 29 B of HM insulin. Detemir is likely to be less susceptible to variability of insulinemia and its action is without pronounced peak and predictable.
It was showed to have a dose-dependent duration af action. Benefit of detemir in comparison with NPH insulin are longer duration of action, more predictable glycemia levels, reduced risk of hypoglycemia (nocturnal), lack of weight gain.