UK Diabetics Face Insulin Shortage Risk as Key Drug Discontinued
An estimated 30,000 patients must switch from Levemir before its December discontinuation, raising concerns about timely transitions and potential health risks.
Tens of thousands of diabetic individuals in the United Kingdom are at risk of facing an insulin shortage by the end of the year, as the once-or-twice-daily injection Levemir, also known as insulin detemir, is scheduled for discontinuation in December. Manufacturer Novo Nordisk announced the global withdrawal of the drug in September 2024, citing declining usage.
However, data indicates that approximately 30,000 UK patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes still rely on Levemir to manage their blood sugar levels. Without adequate insulin, these patients face the life-threatening condition of ketoacidosis, a rapid rise in blood sugar levels.
Health officials have issued a national patient safety alert, urging National Health Service (NHS) staff to cease prescribing Levemir. Despite this, drug analysts express concern that not all affected patients will be switched to alternative treatments in time for the December deadline.
Data compiled by RX-info from integrated care boards (ICBs) shows that Levemir prescriptions have decreased by roughly one-third over the past three months. Experts warn this rate of reduction may not be sufficient to complete the transition before the drug is withdrawn.
"The latest available data up to September 2026 continues to suggest there is insufficient switching to reach the December deadline," a spokesperson for RX-info stated, according to the Pharmaceutical Journal.
Dr. Leyla Hannbeck, chief executive of the Independent Pharmacies Association, described the process of switching insulin prescriptions as "straightforward." However, she cautioned that any delays could lead to serious health consequences. "Without switching to the alternative, patients can be at risk of high levels of glucose in the blood which can be life threatening," Dr. Hannbeck told the Daily Mail.
Ketoacidosis, also referred to as a "diabetic attack," occurs when harmful ketone compounds accumulate in the blood, potentially leading to severe complications. NHS guidance lists symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and blurred vision. Other warning signs include deep breathing, a fruity smell on the breath, and extreme fatigue or confusion.
Diabetes UK advises individuals using Levemir to contact their healthcare provider as soon as possible to arrange a switch to an alternative insulin. The charity emphasizes the importance of scheduling appointments promptly to ensure the transition occurs before the end of the year.
Patients can be moved to various alternative long-acting insulins, which provide a steady release of the hormone to control blood sugar, similar to Levemir. Recommended alternatives include insulin glargine and insulin degludec, available under brand names such as Lantus, Toujeo, and Tresiba. The specific medication will be determined by availability and NHS guidelines. Healthcare professionals are being encouraged to utilize a range of alternative drugs to avoid placing undue pressure on stock or causing shortages.