Insulin degludec

What it is

Long-acting basal insulin analogs (insulin glargine, insulin detemir, insulin degludec) are modified insulin molecules with extended duration of action, providing continuous background insulin coverage between meals. Insulin glargine and degludec each have specific structural modifications that promote slow absorption from subcutaneous depots, providing relatively flat insulin profiles over 24 hours (glargine) or longer (degludec, with duration exceeding 42 hours).

Mechanism of action

Same insulin receptor mechanism as other insulin formulations. The clinical distinction is the prolonged absorption profile, which provides basal insulin coverage to suppress hepatic glucose production overnight and between meals — the role normally played by endogenous basal insulin secretion.

Approved indications

Treatment of type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus, typically as the basal component of basal-bolus therapy or as standalone therapy in some type 2 diabetes patients.

Why this is out of scope at The Tide

As with rapid-acting insulin, basal insulin therapy is appropriately managed by endocrinology or primary care diabetes providers with appropriate expertise. The Tide does not provide insulin management.

Where to learn more

ADA Standards of Care, FDA prescribing information, and your diabetes care provider.