Needle suitable for injections?

[BethattheBeach]

I have decided to self inject and am wondering what is the best sort of needle to ask for? I want to look like I know what I am doing! I will purchase hydroxocobalamin 1mg/1mL at the same time. I am in Australia so can purchase over the counter from my pharmacy. Thank you - I always find your answers very informative.

[fbirder]

I, and many others, use two needles per injection. One relatively wide bore to suck the solution out of the vial and a smaller one for the injection.

The first one is 21G 1.5 Inch (0.8mm x 40mm), Green

The second is 23G 1.25 Inch (0.6mm x 30mm), Blue

[BethattheBeach in reply to fbirder]

Thank you! Have you read of the concern about breaking the ampoule and getting a glass shard into the solution?

[fbirder in reply to BethattheBeach]

That's one of the reasons for using two needles. The first needle may suck up small fragments of glass, but they'd find it more difficult to get through the second, smaller, needle. Also, when the syringe is inverted to expel air you may be able to see any fragments settling on the plunger.

I've found the ampoules I get from Germany aren't scored (or aren't scored very well). So I use one of these gadgets to score them and break them open....

sepha.com/en/products/view/...

[BethattheBeach in reply to fbirder]

Lovely. I have just popped it onto my list, too. Thanks, that is a great help. I'm scared to do it myself so I am hoping I can convince an x-nurse friend to teach me. Should I be aware of any ethical issues in asking a professional to assist in such a request?

[fbirder in reply to fbirder]

Actually, I've just noticed that Amazon UK do a kit with the two different needles, a 2ml syringe and an alcohol swab. I'm sure it's more expensive than buying them seperately, but some people may find it convenient...

amazon.co.uk/23G-21G-Unisha...

[BethattheBeach in reply to fbirder]

This afternoon I spoke to the pharmacy and they are happy to supply me without a prescription.... I just need to know what to ask for. So, thanks again.

[Leilanilea]

Hello,

Have you considered using multi-injection bottles of B12 (cyanocobalimin) instead of one-dose glass vials? I've ordered them from Canadian site and can definitely recommend their products and service: Buy-Otc.com

I also bought their syringes with needles attached: BD 3 ml Syringe, Luer-Lok Tip with BD PrecisionGlide Needle. 25G (gauge) x 1in (0.5mm x 25mm)

I'm a retired RN and was happy to see BD as they have been around forever and considered a reputable company, as is Cytex, the maker of the cyanocobalamin. It comes in 10ml multiple dose vial/bottle with rubber stopper under the cap. 1000mcg/ml, for Intramuscular or Deep Sub-Q Injection.

I have self injected into thigh and these needles are slick...barely knew it was in! Using multi-dose B12 eliminates the need to break glass vial and potential cuts.

Hint, if you need to use glass one-dose vials...wrap one or two alcohol wipes, depending on their thickness, around pointed top of vial, hold bottle tightly and break off. The alcohol helps to hold without slipping and also protects your fingers.

Also, to get all the bubbles out of the vial, thus all solution into bottom, before opening hold with point upright and flick lower part of vial with middle finger and thumb.

Best,

Leilani

[BethattheBeach]

Thanks, Leilanilea. You have given me some really good hints. I am a bit anxious about injecting so I have made another appointment with my GP for one last pitch for more frequent treatment. Here in Australia the Dr is using Hydroxocobalamin so it seems it is different from what you are purchasing online. That company may have Hydroxo' - I could always ask. Is the any problem with cross contamination with a bulk bottle?

Yesterday I saw a naturopath at a Health Food store (trying to find suitable probiotics) and she suggested a full consultation... I am sorely tempted as she sounded more helpful than the specialist. Can't hurt to have some help for the ilium.

Thanks, I'll keep you posted.

[BethattheBeach]

Ouch! The shipping to OZ is US$49.50 which is pretty steep. I will keep an eye out for this option here at home. There may be a Health Foods shop which will have bulk. Thanks for this lead.