Affordability Check
How to afford LEVEMIR
Generic name: insulin detemir
Pick how you're covered. We'll show you the cheapest legitimate way to get LEVEMIR — your insurance copay, manufacturer savings, charity grants, or cash price. It takes 30 seconds and we never ask for your personal information.
Pick an option above to see your specific path.
Different insurance means different laws and different savings. For example, Medicare patients cannot use manufacturer copay cards (federal law) — but the manufacturer almost always has a Patient Assistance Program that gives the drug free.
About LEVEMIR and its cost
What is this medication? Levemir is a long-acting prescription insulin known as insulin detemir, which is used to manage high blood sugar in adults and children with diabetes mellitus. It is designed to provide a steady release of insulin into the body, helping to regulate glucose levels over an extended period. This medication is essential for people whose bodies do not produce enough insulin or cannot use it effectively, thereby reducing the risk of long-term health issues like heart disease, kidney damage, and vision loss.
The medication is effective for treating both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It works by mimicking the basal insulin secretion of a healthy pancreas, facilitating the transport of sugar from the blood into cells for energy and slowing the production of sugar by the liver. Patients typically administer Levemir through an injection under the skin once or twice a day as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that often includes diet, exercise, and sometimes other glucose-lowering medications.
LEVEMIR is made by Novo Nordisk. Like most brand-name drugs, it's priced at a high list price — but patients rarely pay that list price. The options above are the real paths most people use to get it affordably.
Common questions
What's the cheapest way to afford LEVEMIR?
It depends on your insurance. On Medicare, apply for the manufacturer's Patient Assistance Program (PAP) — it gives the drug free if you meet income requirements. With private insurance, the manufacturer copay card usually drops your copay to $0-$25. Uninsured patients should compare the PAP with Cost Plus Drugs cash price.
Can I use a copay card with Medicare for LEVEMIR?
No — federal law (the Anti-Kickback Statute) prohibits manufacturer copay cards on Medicare, Medicaid, TriCare, and VA prescriptions. But Novo Nordisk has a separate Patient Assistance Program for Medicare beneficiaries. Check the options above.
Does my Medicare Part D plan cover LEVEMIR?
Part D coverage varies by plan. We query the CMS Prescription Drug Plan file to show you what percentage of plans cover it and at what tier. For your exact copay, pick "Medicare" above and check your plan's Summary of Benefits, or log in to Medicare.gov.
How long does a Patient Assistance Program take?
Most PAPs take 2-6 weeks from application to first fill. Ask the manufacturer about a "bridge supply" — many will ship 30 days free while your application is being reviewed so you don't go without the drug.
What if I have a high-deductible plan?
For generics, Cost Plus Drugs cash price is often cheaper than your deductible-phase copay. For brand names, the manufacturer copay card almost always wins. A GoodRx coupon can be a last resort for uncovered drugs, but it doesn't count toward your deductible.
Are there charity grants for Diabetes?
Charities like HealthWell Foundation, PAN Foundation, Good Days, and the National Organization for Rare Disorders provide copay help for specific conditions. Funds often run out mid-year — apply early. We list the specific grants for your condition in the options above.
More about LEVEMIR
Full LEVEMIR drug page
FDA label, prior authorization rules, full indications list
More options for Diabetes
Drugs, grants, and assistance for this condition
Guide to Patient Assistance Programs
How PAPs work, who qualifies, typical wait times
If your insurance denied coverage
5-level appeal playbook — Medicare has a 60% win rate at Level 3