New to Levemir-advice?

Sugarkitty15

Sugarkitty15

Member Since 2020
Hello!

Little Squeakers has been having issues getting 'over the hump' into (hopeful) remission on Prozinc. I was advised that sometimes, Levemir can help get them over the hump into remission. Squeaks has developed a pattern to where we're so close to a OTJ trial, but then experiences a 'spike', which causes us to go to a .25U dose, then gradually back down to a drop dose. And repeat, lol. I've read through the sticky's but I just wanted to ask, is there anything else that I should be aware of? I'm going to still start at a drop dose and continue to do SLGS and keep a close eye on his BG since this a depot insulin. I apologize in advance for how many posts I may have when starting, lol!
 
Hello! That was the original plan but I could not get any Lantus, only Levimir. I found they are similar, so I figured this was ok!! :)
 
The main difference you would see between Lantus and Levemir is that Levemir has a later onset and nadir. The typical onset with Lev is +4 and typical nadir is +8. My girl didn't like following rules and was later with both. Levemir is a good choice, people often seen flatter cycles too with it. But the later nadir mean you will have to get used to lower preshots too.

I presume you have the U-100 syringes already? You may also have to wait a few days to see the full effect of the dose, since the depot will have to build.

FYI, there are two dosing methods here. Have you read the Sticky Note on Dosing Methods and thought about which one you'd like to follow? You could start on a drop dose, but we also have a dose called 0.1 units which might be what you'd need to try next. Looking at the spreadsheet, if you don't get the results you are looking for, post here for help. I can think of a a "trick" or two that might help if you end up in the same situation with Levemir as you are with Prozinc.

One housekeeping item, you might want to think about creating a new spreadsheet tab for 2021, makes it easier for us instead of scrolling all the way down to this year. Instructions are here.
 
Wendy&Neko said:
The main difference you would see between Lantus and Levemir is that Levemir has a later onset and nadir. The typical onset with Lev is +4 and typical nadir is +8. My girl didn't like following rules and was later with both. Levemir is a good choice, people often seen flatter cycles too with it. But the later nadir mean you will have to get used to lower preshots too.

I presume you have the U-100 syringes already? You may also have to wait a few days to see the full effect of the dose, since the depot will have to build.

FYI, there are two dosing methods here. Have you read the Sticky Note on Dosing Methods and thought about which one you'd like to follow? You could start on a drop dose, but we also have a dose called 0.1 units which might be what you'd need to try next. Looking at the spreadsheet, if you don't get the results you are looking for, post here for help. I can think of a a "trick" or two that might help if you end up in the same situation with Levemir as you are with Prozinc.

One housekeeping item, you might want to think about creating a new spreadsheet tab for 2021, makes it easier for us instead of scrolling all the way down to this year. Instructions are here.
Click to expand...
Thanks @Wendy&Neko, lots of good information, perfect! I will check those out. Also, I never even thought about a new tab. I will get that created. I do have the u100 syringes already, so good to go there. I was planning on starting with the drop dose, but I'll check out the sticky to be sure. I will be sure to reach out if I have any issues!
 
Here is the info on doing a new 2021 tab. PM me if you have any issues or need help.

I used Lantus and after less than a year, switched to Levemir and LOVED it. It’s such a great insulin and my Gracie got much better duration. One important thing to note: sometimes on the first cycle of the switch, you could see a little extra action so best to start in the morning.

Good luck and ask questions.
 
Quick question, just to make sure I’m understanding this correctly. If I’m doing a drop dose now on u40 syringe, would that be the .1U on. U100?
 
Also, I took a closer look at my syringes and they are u40, I didn't realize that when I replied earlier. My vet isn't very involved and I don't think she'll just give me a prescription for the u100 syringes. I don't see any available in the supply closet either. Any ideas on what I can do?
 
Sugarkitty15 said:
Actually, I see Amazon has these--would this be an ok brand? (I didn't realize Amazon sold insulin syringes!)

https://www.amazon.com/Brandzig-U-100-Insulin-Syringes-100-Pack/dp/B08MQCYH3N/ref=sr_1_2?crid=1D6WOEZL9SDBA&dchild=1&keywords=u100 insulin syringes with needle&qid=1611670618&sprefix=u100,aps,205&sr=8-2
Click to expand...
Check out AmericanDiabetesWholesale. I’d recommend a 31g needle over 29g as the 31g is smaller and more comfortable. You can post the question here to members in syringe recommendations by just changing the subject title. I never needed a prescription to order syringes from ADW. I don’t understand why a vet would be opposed to a prescription for the correct syringes if they are giving a script for the Levemir.

If you switch, I’d just go with a drop of Levemir (or Lantus) with the U100 syringes. Do that by pushing the plunger all the way in, inserting it into the pen, and then letting the pressure off the plunger. It will pull up one drop. The 0.1u dose is a bit more insulin and there are pictures of that dose in the stickys in this ISG.
 
Hi Betsy, in future, we'd request that you start a new post each day. Marje and I are helping a kitty mom battle a symptomatic hypo over on Feline Health, and a new post will get more eyes from other people who might also be able to help. POSTING GUIDELINES PLEASE READ

First of all, it's easier for us if you keep all of 2021 data on one tab. Just include a blank like labelled "start Levemir" or something like that on the day before you started Lev.

Next, is it possible for you to get night time tests at all? I can't tell if Squeak needs more insulin, or whether he's going lower at night and bouncing without seeing what happens in the PM. Many cats go lower at night. Also, any depot would still be building, it takes 5-7 days.

Sorry for all the requests, been a hectic day and have to do short replies elsewhere.
 
Oh gosh, sorry about that! Sure, I’ll update the spreadsheet and try to get some night checks in, then report back in a new thread if need be. Maybe it is just waiting for the depot to build up?! I’ll try to be patient—thanks so much for your help!
 
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