News

Insulin Detemir added to Provincial Drug Formulary

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Tags: Media Releases

TORONTO, ON (June 24, 2009) – The Canadian Diabetes Association applauds the Government of Ontario for increasing access to insulin detemir for Ontarians living with diabetes. Insulin detemir, also known as Levemir has been added to the Ontario Drug Formulary, effective June 23. 

“The addition of insulin detemir to Ontario’s drug formulary is an important step in providing an option for those living with diabetes for whom other insulin treatments have not been effective in controlling blood glucose levels,” said Gary O’Connor, Executive Director, Ontario, Canadian Diabetes Association. “We appreciate the Government of Ontario for being committed to the area of diabetes management and providing additional coverage for those living with diabetes.”

Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas to control the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood. For those living with diabetes, the pancreas does not produce any or enough insulin, or is unable to effectively use the insulin it does produce. As a result, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, potentially leading to serious health problems such as blindness, heart disease, kidney problems, amputation, nerve damage and erectile dysfunction.

The Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) program administered by the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-term Care provides coverage for a number of drug products including nutrition products and diabetes testing agents. For more information on the ODB program, visit http://www.health.gov.on.ca

The Canadian Diabetes Association works in communities across the country to promote the health of Canadians and eliminate diabetes through our strong nationwide network of volunteers, employees, healthcare professionals, researchers, partners and supporters. In the struggle against this global epidemic, our expertise is recognized around the world. To learn more, visit diabetes.ca or call 1-800-BANTING (226-8464). 

For more information, please contact:
Randi Garcha
Associate, Marketing & Communications, Ontario
Canadian Diabetes Association
Tel : (416) 408-7207