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 | How can I make my insulin injections easier and more comfortable?
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|  Many people with diabetes give themselves injections daily. Most syringes for insulin injections have very small needles with a slick coating. The majority of people who require insulin shots find that they don't hurt too much. No matter how often you take insulin, it's possible to make injections more comfortable by following these tips. Warm the insulin container in the palm of your hand before the injection. Cold insulin may make the insulin shot more painful. Use a small, high-gauge needle (28G or 29G) to reduce any injection pain or irritation.Use a new needle with each injection. New needles are sharp and slide in more easily, causing less pain. New needles also help to prevent infections. If you have trouble handling a syringe, use an insulin pen. Although they cost more, they're much easier to operate.Avoid putting the needle in exactly the same spot every day. Doing so can result in fat deposits under the skin. It can also make the skin become sensitive.Relax your muscles in the area you are injecting the insulin and quickly puncture the skin.Keep the needle at the same angle as you insert and remove it. Doctors usually recommend holding the needle perpendicular (a 90-degree angle) to the surface of the skin when injecting. After removing the needle, apply pressure to the spot for 5 to 10 seconds, but don't rub the area.The Medi-Jector Vision needle-free insulin injection system may be a good alternative to traditional needle syringes and pen syringes. This device uses disposable needle-free syringes to deliver the insulin. It creates a micro-thin column of insulin, which penetrates the skin, dispersing the insulin into the fatty tissue. Some people may notice some mild bruising and a small amount of blood after the injection, but this device may be a less painful alternative for some individuals. Sources:
101 Tips for Staying Healthy with Diabetes. American Diabetes Association, 1999.
Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. American Pharmaceutical Association, 2000.
Diabetes A to Z: What You Need to Know About Diabetes – Simply Put. American Diabetes Association, 1997.
The Uncomplicated Guide to Diabetes Complications. American Diabetes Association. 1998.
Bremseth, DL. “Delivery of Insulin by Jet Injection: Recent Observations.” Diabetes Technology & Therapy. 3 (2001).
Medi-Ject Product Information www.mediject.com Antares Pharma, Inc. 2006.
Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts & Comparisons, 2006.
This answer prepared 8/8/2001.
This information updated 12/6/2006.
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