Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor, diabetes educator, or pharmacist.

Learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional and the product package.

Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the insulin. Insulin detemir should be clear and colorless.

Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. Change where you inject each time to lessen the risk of problems or damage under the skin (for example, pits/lumps or thickened skin). Insulin detemir is done in the stomach area, the thigh, or the back of the upper arm. Do not inject into a vein or muscle because very low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) may occur. Avoid rubbing the area after the injection. Do not inject into skin that is red, swollen, itchy, or damaged. The insulin container you are currently using  keep at room temperature (see also Storage section). Do not shake the container.

Inject this medication under the skin as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily. Insulin detemir is usually injected with the evening meal or at bedtime. If you are using it twice a day, inject as directed by your doctor, usually your first dose in the morning and your second dose with the evening meal, at bedtime, or 12 hours after the morning dose.

Do not change brands or types of insulin without directions on how to do so from your doctor.

Avoid sharing your pen device with another person, even if you change the needle. You may give other people a serious infection, or get a serious infection from them. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens (your blood sugar is too high or too low).