According to the DiaTribe website, pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk has officially announced that by the end of 2026 it will discontinue the production and sale of Levemir (detemir) insulin. This news will affect thousands of people with diabetes worldwide.
What is Levemir?
Levemir is a long-acting (basal) insulin that works for up to 24 hours and is used once or twice a day. It is prescribed for people with diabetes over one year of age, and many have relied on it for decades as a stable part of their therapy.
Why is it being withdrawn?
According to Novo Nordisk, the reason for discontinuation is the global decline in demand for Levemir and the shift toward newer generations of insulin.
When will it disappear from the market?
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In some countries, the company has already started advising doctors not to initiate new therapies with Levemir.
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Full withdrawal is expected by December 2026, when the remaining stock should be exhausted.
This gives patients more than a year to schedule a visit with their diabetologist—even in larger clinics such as KBC Split.
What does this mean for people with diabetes?
If you use Levemir, there is no need to panic. Supplies should last until 2026. Together with your diabetologist, you will be able to find another long-acting insulin.
It is important not to stop therapy on your own!!
Conclusion
From my personal experience, Levemir is truly an excellent insulin. However, for good type 1 diabetes management it often needs to be taken two or even three times a day, and timing is quite important—something not required with some of the newer insulins.
Good news is also coming from Novo Nordisk: a once-weekly insulin is expected soon, showing that the company has not abandoned insulin innovation.
The most important thing is that alternatives exist, although they must be chosen carefully because not everyone responds the same way. The transition will be planned and gradual with the support of your diabetologist.
Wishing us all the best 🙂
