**Introduction to Insulin Degludec** Insulin degludec is a long-acting basal insulin analog designed to provide stable and prolonged blood glucose control in individuals with diabetes. With an ultra-long duration of action exceeding 42 hours, it offers consistent insulin coverage with once-daily dosing, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia, particularly nocturnal episodes. Its unique mechanism involves the formation of multi-hexamers at the injection site, ensuring a slow, steady release into the bloodstream. Clinically proven for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, insulin degludec provides flexible dosing times, making it a convenient option for patients with varying schedules. Its efficacy and safety profile make it a valuable therapeutic choice for optimized glycemic management.
Preparation Process: Insulin degludec is prepared by recombinant DNA technology using a modified *Saccharomyces cerevisiae* strain. The gene encoding the B29-lysine-desB30 human insulin precursor is expressed and purified. The precursor undergoes enzymatic cleavage to remove the B30 threonine residue, followed by acylation with hexadecanedioic acid via a γ-L-glutamyl spacer at the B29 lysine. The resulting insulin degludec forms multihexamers upon subcutaneous injection, ensuring prolonged action. Purification involves chromatography (e.g., reverse-phase and ion-exchange) and crystallization. The final product is formulated with phenol and zinc for stability. Strict quality control ensures purity, potency, and sterility.
Usage Scenarios: Insulin degludec is a long-acting basal insulin analog used to manage blood glucose levels in adults and children with type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus. It provides a stable and prolonged glycemic control with a duration of action exceeding 42 hours, allowing for flexible dosing schedules. Its ultra-long action profile results from slow absorption and multi-hexamer formation at the injection site, ensuring a flat and predictable glucose-lowering effect with a lower risk of hypoglycemia compared to other basal insulins. Administered subcutaneously, it is often prescribed once daily, though timing can vary. It may be combined with rapid-acting insulins or oral antidiabetic agents for optimal glycemic management.