Levemir contains insulin detemir, a long-acting insulin. Novo Nordisk lists it as discontinued and no longer available in the United States. Its previous US formulations and safety information remain relevant to people reviewing an older prescription or arranging a treatment change.
The approved uses and formulations described here follow US prescribing information. They may differ in other countries.
| Medicine detail | Details |
|---|---|
| Active ingredient(s) | insulin detemir |
| Medicine class | Long-acting basal insulin |
| Forms and strengths | Historical US U-100 solution in vial and FlexPen presentations |
How Levemir works
Insulin detemir provides background insulin coverage for adults and children with diabetes. The US prescribing information describes once- or twice-daily use, depending on the prescribed regimen. It is not a treatment for diabetic ketoacidosis, and people who need mealtime insulin require that as part of their treatment.
Source: [1]
Previous US presentations
Levemir was supplied in the United States as U-100 solution in a 10 mL vial and a 3 mL FlexPen. An online prescribing document or an older pack listing does not mean those presentations are currently available.
Source: [1]
US discontinuation
Novo Nordisk lists Levemir among products discontinued and no longer available in the United States. Availability in other countries may differ. A local healthcare professional or the manufacturer can confirm the status in the country concerned.
Planning a change in insulin
Another basal insulin may have a different duration of action, concentration or device. The prescribing team should provide the replacement prescription, written dosing instructions and glucose-monitoring advice. Do not make a one-for-one conversion without that guidance.
Source: [1]
Safety while arranging a transition
Low blood glucose, low potassium and medication errors are important risks with insulin. Never share pens or improvise a concentration conversion. Anyone still using a previously dispensed Levemir supply should contact their prescribing team before it runs out.
Source: [1]
Questions and answers
Is Levemir the same ingredient as Lantus?
No. Levemir contains insulin detemir; Lantus contains insulin glargine.
Does an online US label prove Levemir is still marketed?
No. Novo Nordisk lists it as discontinued and no longer available in the US.
Can I use a one-for-one basal insulin conversion from a website?
A transition needs individualized clinical instructions and monitoring, not a self-directed conversion.
Related reading
Sources
Sources checked 1 October 2026. This information does not replace advice from your healthcare professional. For complete warnings and instructions, read the product information and consult the prescribing team.
Reviewed by: Mattias Hagman, PhD
About the reviewer:
Dr Mattias Hagman (PhD, University of Sydney) has an academic background and experience working with healthcare-related content and regulated industries. He has lecturing experience at international universities, including Stockholm University and the University of Malta.
Last reviewed: October 2026