How to Use Insulin Pens & Needles: Benefits and Techniques

The experts at ADW Diabetes are here to explain how to use pen needles properly. We’ll also highlight the pros and cons of using insulin pen needles, syringes, and pumps so you can determine which insulin delivery system is best for you. Understanding the differences is the key to selecting the one that aligns with your unique needs and preferences.

This guide highlights general information about pen needles, but it’s very important to note that you should always follow the guidance of a health care professional, as well as the specific instructions included with your device.

Read on to learn why and how to use an insulin pen!

A Convenient Insulin Delivery Solution

Before we dive into tips and techniques for using pen needles, let’s talk about their benefits. The main reason why pen needles are so popular is because they’re compact, portable, comfortable, and easy to use. They come pre-loaded with insulin (including pre-mixed insulins) in one simple unit. If you don’t want to fill your own syringes, using a pen needle is the perfect alternative.

Pen needles are the ideal choice for people with active lifestyles. Once you know how to use pen needles, you can quickly and discreetly take your insulin virtually anywhere with the push of a button. It’s an on-the-go, all-in-one device that gives you more freedom throughout the day.

Another reason to learn how to use an insulin pen is because of the modern technologies that are available. Some pens have digital screens so you can track dosing data, and some even connect to smartphone apps for even more detailed tracking.

Why Use Insulin Syringes or Pumps?

As you can see, pen needles offer some very exciting benefits! You may be wondering why anyone would use syringes or pumps. Both insulin delivery systems do have their own unique benefits.

Syringe Benefits

Medical syringes offer more flexibility and control but at the cost of convenience. Some people use syringes because they require larger or half-unit doses of insulin, or they may need to adjust their doses manually.

Furthermore, some people don’t bother learning how to use an insulin pen because they’re simply used to using syringes. They may have a go-to brand and product that works just fine for their needs, so as the saying goes—if it isn’t broken, why bother fixing it?

Pump Benefits

An insulin pump is a small device that delivers regular insulin doses throughout the day. Most are roughly the size of a smartphone, and they’re worn or carried around. Some people enjoy the convenience of knowing that they don’t have to take their insulin manually, but others prefer smaller, lighter insulin delivery systems.

How to Use Pen Needles: Tips & Techniques

Now that you’re familiar with the basics, let’s discuss how to use insulin pens. As previously mentioned, these tips and techniques should apply to most devices, but make sure you read the entire user manual included with your device to determine the correct approach. If you’re not sure how to use your pen needle, talk to a health care professional.

Safety First

First and foremost, it’s vital that you choose a pen with the correct type and dosage of insulin. You should know the medication’s name, the amount of medication the pen contains, and whether or not it’s concentrated.

Never use a syringe to remove insulin from a pen needle. Even if you’re extremely careful, you could end up with the wrong dose.

You shouldn’t share your pen, even if the other person knows how to use an insulin pen properly and uses the same type and dose of insulin. Doing so could cause an infection.

You may want to use a safety pen needle if you have children in the home. Dispose of your needles in a proper sharps container.

How to Improve Comfort

The following suggestions should help to improve your comfort when dosing your medication. These tips and techniques on how to use pen needles apply to most people, but always follow the instructions of your health care professional first and foremost.

• Dose Quickly: Just like pulling off a bandage, most people find that dosing rapidly is more comfortable than doing it slowly.
• Relax: As long as you know how to use an insulin pen properly, dosing is safe. Remember that millions of people all over the world do it every day. Try to stay calm.
• Keep the Needle Straight: Be careful not to twist the needle when taking insulin, as you may cause pain, bleeding, or bruising.
• Consider a Thin Gauge: Needles with higher gauges, such as 32G, are thinner and may be more comfortable.
• Rotate Sites: Rotating sites helps to prevent scar tissue buildup and may improve comfort. Keep track of your sites, and switch between them.
• Use Room Temperature Insulin: Taking insulin that just came out of the refrigerator can cause burning. If possible, let your insulin reach room temperature before dosing.

Shop Affordable Insulin Supplies at ADW Diabetes

Now that you know why and how to use an insulin pen, why not give one a try? You may find that learning how to use pen needles is the first step on a lifelong journey of comfort and convenience.

If you’re looking for a great deal on a high-quality diabetic pen, you’ve come to the right place! We offer a large selection of discount diabetic supplies from top brands so you can manage your diabetes on your terms while still staying within your budget.

In addition to insulin pens, we carry many other types of insulin supplies, including insulin syringes and insulin pumps. Regardless of which insulin delivery system you choose, you can shop with confidence, knowing we only stock high-quality diabetic supplies. You can even schedule deliveries through our convenient Diabetic Coverage® Auto-Ship Program.

We hope this guide is helpful as you learn how to use an insulin pen. If you have any questions, get in touch. Continue exploring our diabetes blog for more expert information about managing your condition. Download the ADW Diabetes App for easy and secure mobile shopping. Make ADW Diabetes your go-to resource for all things diabetes!