Tresiba and Levemir are two popular commercial forms of insulin that are used to treat Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Read on to discover the similarities and differences between these products.
What is Tresiba?
Tresiba contains insulin degludec, which is a long-acting form of insulin. It begins working several hours after injection and continues to act for approximately 24 hours. There is no need for multiple doses of Tresiba because of its prolonged action.
Tresiba is used to treat Type 1 and 2 diabetes in adults and children. It is not recommended for children under one year of age.
It is available in vials and in a prefilled FlexTouch pen. The disposable pen is available in two dosage forms, U – 100 with 300 units of insulin and U – 200 with 600 units.
What is Levemir?
Levemir is another form of long-acting insulin used to treat diabetes. It contains insulin detemir, which begins to work several hours after injection. The duration of action is approximately 24 hours.
Levemir is used to treat Type 1 and 2 diabetes in pediatric and adult patients. The child must be at least two years of age to use Levemir.
FlexTouch pens are available for Levemir with a maximum dose of 300 units. Levemir vials are also available if needed.
Difference between Tresiba and Levemir
The primary difference is the type of insulin used. Tresiba contains insulin degludec and Levemir contains insulin detemir. Despite the different forms of insulin, both have the same onset and duration of action.
Both drugs can be used to treat Type 1 and 2 diabetes in adults and children. Tresiba is available in two dosage units (300 and 600), while Levemir is available in one dosage unit (300 units).
Opened (in use) Tresiba and Levemir can be refrigerated or stored at room temperature. Levemir must be used within 42 days and Tresiba must be used within 56 days.
The two drugs have similar common side effects, such as:
- Whole body allergic reactions
- Injection site reactions
- Skin thickening at injection site
- Weight gain
- Swelling of the hands and feet
- Itching
- Rash
If you have had previous episodes of hypoglycemia, avoid both Tresiba and Levemir. Always inform your doctor of your existing medical conditions and follow their instructions carefully.
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Disclaimer: Please note that the contents of this community article are strictly for informational purposes and should not be considered as medical advice. This article, and other community articles, are not written or reviewed for medical validity by Canadian Insulin or its staff. All views and opinions expressed by the contributing authors are not endorsed by Canadian Insulin. Always consult a medical professional for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.
