What is the duration of long-acting insulin like detemir?

Long-acting insulin, such as detemir, is designed to provide a steady level of insulin over an extended period, mimicking the natural baseline secretion of insulin from the pancreas. The duration of action for detemir is typically between 12 to 24 hours, allowing for once or twice-daily dosing depending on the individual's needs and their overall treatment plan. This makes it suitable for managing blood glucose levels in people with diabetes throughout the day and overnight.

The consistent release of insulin helps maintain a more stable blood glucose level, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia compared to shorter-acting insulins. This characteristic makes long-acting insulins like detemir an integral part of basal-bolus insulin regimens, especially for individuals who require tighter control of their diabetes management. The duration of 12 to 24 hours effectively supports individuals in achieving optimal glycemic control without the need for frequent injections.