size of syringes

[tuscanboy]

What size syringes are everyone using? 1/2" or 1"? Is it critical to give shots in muscle or under the skin.

[nobodysdriving]

you can inject in the muscle OR in the skin. In the muscle it is an 'intramuscular injection', this is the way most NHS GPs/doctors will give it to you as on the hydroxocobalamin ampoule given by NHS it says 'for intramuscular use only' (even though it CAN be given under the skin).

Under the skin is 'subcutaneous' and this method is also ok.

Some people say they feel a difference in how they respond to their injection depending on how it was given to them, I don't (some people don't), or in how long the injection benefit lasts for. I guess you have to try to see if it affects you at all as we are all different.

Many people who self-inject will do the subcutaneous method, especially if they inject often (but again, many do intramuscular too). I inject subcutaneously as I inject EVERY DAY, it is quicker/easier and painless this way and I prefer it having injections every day.

[Luna]

I use 2.5ml syringes as I find that I need the room to draw the liquid up. I use a longer, separate needle to draw the B12 up and then change to a shorter needle for injecting subcutaneously. I also inject this way because I have to inject every day and it is easier and less painful for me. I don't notice a difference injecting sub cut as opposed to intramuscular, it all works the same for me.

[harvold]

Here is a great write up on this blog regarding syringe size and IM vs. Subcutaneous injection.vitaminb12direct.com/blog/

I hope that is helpful to you. I personally think using a 31 gauge insulin syringe is fine unless one has a high body fat ratio and then IM injection with a 24 gauge syringe would be considered optimal. Just my opinion based on my experience and the information I've been able to access from various medical sources.

[Mrs_Somerset]

I (well my husband did - I shake too much) use the larger needle to draw up, and the smaller for the IM injection, and if it hurts try relaxing, and if it bleeds - fear not, it is probably just a vein - you get the hang of it

for IM shots make sure to inject the fluid slowly, it is more uncomfortable if you go quickly, probably a lack of space.

if you can get a nurse to show you a few times, that would help, the nurses at my GP's were lovely, very patient, and very helpful