Insulin degludec is a prescription medication used to manage diabetes. It falls under the category of long-acting insulin analogs and is designed to provide a steady insulin release over an extended period. This unique feature distinguishes it from other insulin formulations.

Insulin degludec is available under the brand name Tresiba. No generic version is currently available.

This medication can only be obtained with a prescription, meaning you must have a written prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to purchase it.

Insulin degludec is primarily prescribed for the management of diabetes, a chronic medical condition characterized by high blood sugar levels. It is used in the treatment of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes to help control blood glucose levels and prevent complications associated with uncontrolled diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition. It occurs when your body attacks your pancreas with antibodies, causing the organ to stop producing insulin. Unlike type 2 diabetes, which can be caused by obesity, lack of exercise, and other risk factors, type 1 diabetes has no common cause. It commonly appears during childhood and has no cure – although genetics and environment are thought to play a role in its development. If left untreated and unmanaged, diabetes can cause serious – potentially life-threatening – complications.

Possible complications caused by diabetes include:

• Cardiovascular disease
  
• Kidney disease
  
• Eye damage
  
• Nerve damage
  
• Foot problems
  
• Skin conditions
  
  

It’s important to note that type 1 diabetes cannot be cured. Insulin degludec is prescribed to individuals diagnosed with diabetes to help them manage the disease.

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the pancreas produces insulin, but the body becomes resistant to its effects. About 90% of people who have diabetes have type 2 diabetes. While both type 1 and type 2 diabetes may begin during childhood, type 2 diabetes is more common among adults, especially in obese individuals.

The use of insulin degludec may lead to adverse side effects.

Mild side effects associated with insulin degludec may include:

• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
  
• Injection site reactions, such as redness, swelling, or itching
  
• Weight gain
  
• Skin thickening
  
  

More serious side effects include:

• Rash and itching
  
• Hives
  
• Shortness of breath
  
• Wheezing
  
• Dizziness
  
• Excessive sweating
  
• Tingling in the hands or feet
  
• Rapid weight gain
  
• Swelling in the face, hands, legs, or feet
  
• Low blood potassium
  
• Extremely low blood sugar
  
  

If you experience any of these side effects or have concerns about them, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Before starting insulin degludec, inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, which may interact with insulin degludec.

Adjustments to your insulin regimen may be necessary if you have certain medical conditions or are taking specific medications.

Specifically, tell your healthcare provider if you are taking:

• Sulfonylureas drugs
  
• Meglitinides
  
• Corticosteroids
  
• Antipsychotic drugs
  
• Beta-blockers (like propranolol and atenolol)
  
• Thiazide diuretics
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider to discuss the management of your diabetes and insulin needs during this period.

Insulin degludec is supplied as a subcutaneous injection–an injection that is delivered just beneath the skin. The dosing of insulin degludec is individualized based on your specific diabetes management plan. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate starting dose and adjust it as needed to achieve and maintain your target blood sugar levels.

It is crucial to adhere to your provider's instructions regarding the timing and dosage of insulin degludec to manage your diabetes effectively.

Do not discontinue or increase your insulin degludec dosage without consulting your doctor first.

Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and inform your doctor if you begin to experience any side effects while taking the medication.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regularly scheduled amount. Do not take a double dose of insulin degludec.

Insulin degludec is currently only available via prescription. A licensed healthcare provider must authorize the use of this drug.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can write you a prescription during a virtual or in-person visit. You can arrange for same-day pickup at your pharmacy, depending on the medication. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not insulin degludec might be right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Sesame cannot guarantee that you will be provided a prescription after a video or in-person appointment. Providers on Sesame are unable to prescribe controlled substances.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription for insulin degludec to be picked up near you—often within the same day. Don’t wait to get your prescription filled. Talk to a provider on Sesame and get your prescription ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your doctor.