I have been doing B-12 shots now for 20 years once monthly with a 1/2" syringe and now I was told by a New Dr. that I should do the 1" syrin

[tuscanboy]

Should I keep doing my smaller syringe into the buttock under the skin not the muscle?

[Leilanilea]

Hi Tuscan,

I don't know whether you need to be injecting subcutaneously (just under skin in fatty tissue--Sub-Q) or intramuscularly--I.M. Your doctor or others here can better guide you about that issue.

However, a 1/2 or 5/8-inch needle is generally used for Sub-Q and is inserted in areas such as the upper arm, abdomen, upper buttock, or upper front of the thighs. Unless a person is extremly thin a Sub-Q length needle will not go deep into muscle.

The technique for injecting Sub-Q should be demonstrated to you, preferably by a nurse, with you giving a return "demonstration" injection in order to be sure you get the best results from your B12.

Best wishes, Leilani, RN retired